- Joe Root made a record for himself
- For the first time in the history of Test cricket in 149 years
- Regarded as the most successful fielder
Joe Root: In the longest and most difficult form of cricket, when a batsman struggles to stay at the crease, the fielder in the slips has an eagle eye on the ball. After hours of scorching heat, cold winds and long waits, getting the same chance without batting an eyelid is not something that is within everyone's reach. England batsman Joe Root has once again proved that he is one of the great masters of modern cricket, not only with the bat, but also with his agility and precise hands in the slips.
In the first Test against Pakistan, Joe Root wrote a new golden chapter in the history of Test cricket. In the ninth over of Pakistan's second innings, when Jofra Archer's fast ball took the outside edge of batsman Azan Awais's bat and raced towards slip, Root, deployed at first slip, made no mistake and caught the ball with both hands. By the time the young batsman returned to the Azan Pavilion, at 9 off 14 balls, Pakistan were 36 for 2. However, this wicket started a historic celebration on the ground.
Past Steven Smith
This catch of Joe Root It was the 219th catch of his Test career. With this single catch, Root set the world record for most catches by a non-wicket fielder in Test cricket. He broke Australia's star batsman Steven Smith's record of 218 catches and took the top spot.
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Legends like Dravid, Jayawardene and Kallis passed away
Achieving this milestone in fielding in Test cricket is no less than a great penance. Rahul Dravid, who is known as 'The Wall' of India, topped this historic list with 210 catches. Below him is Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardene, who took 205 catches in his illustrious career. Meanwhile, South Africa's greatest all-rounder, Jacques Kallis, also excelled at slip and close fielding, taking 200 catches. Now, Joe Root has overtaken all these legends to become the most successful fielder in Test history with 219 catches.
Unparalleled concentration and fitness in a slip cordon
Root's performance is particularly special, as he is consistently one of the most mentally and physically active players on the field. Playing big knocks at the crease for hours, then standing tirelessly at first or second slip for hours, concentrating on every ball, shows his extraordinary dedication. Fielding in the slips requires quick responses, footwork and the ability to anticipate the swing and bounce of the ball.
Another interesting aspect of this record is that there has always been a healthy and exciting rivalry between Joe Root and Steven Smith in Test cricket. Both are part of the modern Fab-Four and have set new standards in both batting and fielding. For Root to surpass Smith's 218 catches to reach 219 catches will be a hugely satisfying moment for Root personally.
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