Cricket enthusiasts have long been mesmerized by the ‘Fab 4’—Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root. These four modern-day greats have dominated Test cricket for over a decade, leaving an indelible mark on their batting prowess. While each of them has their own strengths, the debate on who stands tallest among them continues. In this comprehensive analysis, we take a deeper look at Joe Root’s career and compare his achievements, performances, and statistics with those of his illustrious peers to determine if he truly stands above the rest.
A Statistical Overview of the Fab 4
To begin, here’s a statistical snapshot of the Fab 4 in Test cricket:
– Virat Kohli: 8,848 runs in 113 Tests at an average of 49.15, with 29 centuries and 30 half-centuries.
– Steve Smith: 9,685 runs in 109 Tests at an average of 57.32, with 32 centuries and 41 half-centuries.
– Kane Williamson: 8,743 runs in 100 Tests at an average of 54.89, with 32 centuries and 34 half-centuries.
– Joe Root: 12,402 runs in 146 Tests at an average of 50.62, with 34 centuries and 64 half-centuries.
Root leads in total runs, centuries, and half-centuries—a testament to his longevity and consistency at the highest level. But the numbers alone don’t tell the full story.
The Case for Joe Root: More Than Just Numbers
While Joe Root’s statistical dominance is clear, several key factors further cement his status as a top contender for the best among the Fab 4.
1. Consistency Across All Conditions
Joe Root’s ability to perform in all conditions sets him apart. Although he hasn’t yet scored a century in Australia, he averages nearly 40 on their challenging pitches. More importantly, he has scored centuries across various countries—showcasing his adaptability on fast, bouncy tracks as well as on slow, turning pitches. Whether it’s the swinging conditions of England or the spinning tracks in the subcontinent, Root has proven his versatility by excelling everywhere without being troubled in any specific conditions.
2. Post-Cook Era: Carrying England’s Batting Line-Up
Since Alastair Cook’s retirement in 2018, Joe Root has carried the burden of England’s batting almost single-handedly. England has struggled to find reliable top-order batters, but Root has consistently been their mainstay, often rescuing the team from precarious situations. Unlike his peers, who usually had solid batting lineups around them, Root shouldered more responsibility on a less stable side. His ability to thrive despite these challenges makes his achievements even more remarkable. His ability to perform under pressure is arguably his greatest strength. Over the years, he has often been the player England looks to when their batting collapses or when they need to build a strong foundation. He has mastered the art of pacing an innings, knowing when to attack and when to grind out runs. This temperament, coupled with his technical brilliance, allows him to excel in high-pressure situations, a trait that is especially valuable in Test cricket.
3. Second-Innings Dominance
A key statistic in favor of Joe Root is his impressive second-innings average of 59, significantly higher than Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith. Root’s ability to perform in the second innings, when conditions are typically tougher due to pitch deterioration, highlights his mental toughness and adaptability. Additionally, his fourth-innings average of 41 further strengthens his case, as he excels under pressure in difficult chases, where other players, including Smith, tend to struggle. This consistent ability to deliver in challenging situations reinforces Root’s standing as one of the most complete Test batters among the Fab 4.
4. Impact on Series: Most Player of the Series Awards
One of the most important measures of greatness is how a player impacts a series. Joe Root has won the most Player of the Series awards in Tests among the Fab 4, with a staggering nine awards to his name. This demonstrates his match-winning capabilities and the influence he has had on the series’ outcome. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver in crucial moments solidifies his standing as one of the best, not just in the Fab 4 but in the history of the game.
5. Record-Breaking 2021: A Year of Dominance
Root’s 2021 stands as one of the greatest years in modern cricket. He scored a phenomenal 1,710 runs in 11 matches, breaking records for the most runs scored in a calendar year. He accumulated 7 centuries and 4 half-centuries during this period, leading England’s batting against tough opposition. His run tally in 2021 was more than double that of any other player, and his ability to sustain such form over an entire year highlights his fitness, concentration, and technical proficiency.
6. The Most Centuries and Half-Centuries
Joe Root also has the most centuries (34) and half-centuries (64) among the Fab 4. While Steve Smith has a higher batting average, Root’s ability to consistently convert starts into big scores has been a key feature of his career. The fact that Root has played significantly more matches than the others is also worth noting, as it shows not only his consistency but also his durability in a demanding sport.
Joe Root’s case for being the best among the Fab 4 is a compelling one. His longevity, adaptability across conditions, superior second-inning record, and match-winning contributions set him apart from the others. While Smith may have a higher batting average, and Williamson and Kohli have their own strengths, Root’s all-around consistency, durability, and ability to perform when it matters most make him arguably the most valuable player among them.
Ultimately, cricket fans are fortunate to witness the brilliance of all four players. Each has made a significant contribution to the game, and their legacy will endure for generations. However, if we were to measure greatness by adaptability, consistency, and impact, Joe Root’s name stands out as a serious contender for being the best batter among the Fab 4.