Joe De Vivre At Old Trafford

The 35-year-old batter breaks records with a sensational 150 to put hosts England on top

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OE Root was 11 off 27 at stumps on Day 2 of the fourth Test between India and England on Thursday. With England racing to 225/2 in 46 overs and only 133 runs shy of India's total, the priority for Shubman Gill and Co was to pick wickets, especially Root's. Forgetting their horrible show with the ball only a few hours ago, India bowlers started the day positively and looked disciplined in the morning session.

Unfortunately, they lacked penetration and conditions, which turned batting friendly with it being sunny, didn't help their cause either. The result? Hosts went into lunch at 332/2 with overnight batters Ollie Pope and Root completing their half-century each. A foundation was laid. More importantly, Root was set for yet another marathon innings at one of his favourite venues against his favourite opponents. He did exactly that with a sparkling century. In the process, he became the second highest run-scorer in Test history.