India, July 25 -- Taking giant steps towards all-time greatness, Joe Root on Friday became the second-highest run getter in the history of Test cricket, sending a strong signal of breaking Sachin Tendulkar's world record. 13 years after Ricky Ponting finished with 13378 runs, Root toppled the former Australia captain with a masterful century on Day 3 of the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford in Manchester. Root went past Ponting in the third ball of the 101st over of England's innings with a single off Anshul Kamboj.

Root got a lovely reception from the Old Trafford crowd, who went "Rooooooooot" to celebrate the occasion. What made the moment more special was Ponting's presence in the commentary box. The legendary Australia captai...