Joe Root hits unbeaten 99 to set unique Test record against India

Joe Root blasts past rare milestone in Test thriller

Joe Root hammered an unbeaten 99 to etch his name into cricket’s record books on 16 July 2026, becoming the first player in Test history to post an unbroken 99 against India. The masterful innings arrived in England’s second dig at Lord’s, sealing a draw after a gripping contest.

What happened at Lord’s?

Root strode to the crease with England chasing 286 to force a win. He saw off 193 deliveries, cracked 12 fours, and never surrendered his wicket. His unbeaten 99-his highest score of the series-kept the hosts afloat and denied India a series-levelling victory. The hosts had earlier piled 425, with Ravindra Jadeja snaring six wickets.

Why this 99 matters for Root’s legacy

A 99 is often a curse for batters, but Root turned it into a badge of honour. No one had ever carried their bat for an unbeaten 99 in a Test against India before. The achievement caps a summer where Root has repeatedly bailed England out with big scores, despite patchy starts elsewhere. His average now sits above 48 this year, keeping him firmly in the Ashes frame.

What comes next for Root and England?

England head into the final Test at The Oval needing a draw to retain the series. Root’s form gives them a platform, but the top order must fire too. India, meanwhile, will target a series win with their spinners still dominating. Root’s next Test starts on 25 July-another chance to add to his tally of 29 centuries.