Root Responds to Lehmann's Comments on His Legacy

Joe Root has addressed former Australia coach Darren Lehmann's recent remarks about his status among cricket’s all-time greats. Lehmann suggested Root, despite being an exceptional player, lacks a defining achievement like scoring a Test century in Australia, which has kept him a "rung below" the top tier of legends. 

Root, set to play his 150th Test in the upcoming series opener against New Zealand, acknowledged Lehmann’s right to express his views. Speaking from Christchurch, Root emphasised his focus on contributing to England's success. He remarked, "My job is to score runs. His job is to share his opinion. That’s fair enough." 

Lehmann’s comments followed Virat Kohli’s impressive 30th Test century during India’s victory over Australia in Perth. While Root has 35 Test centuries, his lack of a ton in Australia has drawn comparisons to other modern greats like Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith. 

Lehmann, who coached Australia during four Ashes series involving Root, later clarified his comments, acknowledging Root’s greatness and predicting he might achieve the elusive century during the next Ashes series. 

Root, England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer with 12,754 runs, has been in outstanding form since 2022, scoring more runs than any other player during this period. As he approaches his milestone match, Root expressed gratitude for his career and commitment to continuing his contributions. 

England begins their three-Test series against New Zealand at Hagley Oval on Thursday, with Root eager to lead from the front.