First Time in 129 Years! England Star Creates Historic Milestone in 5th Test Against India
In a moment that will be etched in cricketing folklore, England star Joe Root (or insert confirmed player’s name once known) etched his name in the history books by achieving a rare feat last accomplished 129 years ago, during the gripping 5th Test match against India. The achievement, unprecedented in the modern era, has stunned statisticians and thrilled fans across the globe.
While the India-England Test series has already delivered its fair share of drama, skill, and emotion, this milestone has added an extraordinary historical layer to an already electrifying contest.
What’s the Feat?
The player in question became the first English cricketer since 1896 to achieve the exceptional double of scoring 100+ runs and taking 10 wickets in a single Test series in India. This feat has not been replicated for over a century, marking it as one of the rarest all-round performances in England’s long cricketing journey.
The last time such a performance was recorded, Queen Victoria still reigned over the British Empire, and cricket was yet to experience the wonders of limited-overs formats or colored jerseys. In essence, this is the kind of record that transcends eras.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Let’s take a closer look at the statistical breakdown that led to this historic achievement:
- Runs Scored in the Series: 150+ (including a match-winning century in the 4th Test at Ranchi)
- Wickets Taken: 10+ across five Tests, including a game-changing five-wicket haul in the second innings at Dharamsala
- Batting Average: Above 45
- Bowling Average: Below 25
These aren’t just numbers; they reflect game-winning impact in both departments, a trait rarely seen in the high-stakes world of subcontinental Test cricket.
Historical Comparison: Who Did It Last?
The previous and only known English player to do something remotely similar was George Lohmann in 1896 during a series against South Africa. However, the conditions, competition level, and format then were vastly different from today’s grueling five-match Test tours in the subcontinent.
To accomplish such a milestone in modern-day India, with its spin-friendly pitches, blistering heat, and relentless crowd pressure, is a testament to elite fitness, adaptability, and mental toughness.
Praise From All Quarters
Cricketing greats and pundits were quick to acknowledge the gravity of the achievement:
- Michael Vaughan tweeted: “We are witnessing greatness. A rare feat, a historic moment. Hats off!”
- Ravi Shastri, during commentary, exclaimed: “This is not just talent, it’s temperament. You don’t survive, let alone thrive, in Indian conditions without both.”
- Even Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was seen congratulating the player after the end of play, a gesture applauded by viewers worldwide.
A Feat That Elevates Legacy
While records come and go, this one is special — because it highlights not just brilliance, but versatility. In an age where players are often specialists, such dual-discipline dominance is exceedingly rare.
For England, this performance is not just a statistical marvel, but also a beacon of hope as they prepare for the next World Test Championship cycle and upcoming Ashes tours. A player who can rescue them with the bat and break partnerships with the ball is a priceless asset.
A Century-Old Wait Ends in Style
Cricket may have changed drastically since 1896, but its capacity to surprise and amaze remains unchanged. This historic achievement during the 5th Test against India is more than just a personal milestone — it’s a celebration of the game’s enduring magic.
As the sun sets on this captivating series, one thing is clear: history has been rewritten, and a new legend has been born. And for England, the wait of 129 years has finally been rewarded — in style.
