The England batter Ollie Pope believes that the star batter Joe Root will break the batting legend Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 15921 runs in Tests, after Root went past several legends on Friday in the fourth test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Joe Root has 13409 runs in tests and 2512 runs behind Tendulkar’s record. The former currently has a stunning average of 51.17 and would need around 50 more tests to get past Tendulkar.

Root went past former Australia captain Ricky Ponting on Friday to move into second position in the leading run-getter standings.

“He loves playing for England in Tests more than anything, so I’m sure if his body allows, he’ll be driven to make it to number one, but I think he just wants to keep playing for as long as he can,” said Ollie Pope.

“The excitement he still has to play Tests, he’s always got the biggest smile on his face. The hunger he has for it, I wouldn’t be surprised if he can chase him down,” added Pope.

“He’s not a big one for landmarks, but that’s a pretty cool one. Becoming the second-highest Test run-scorer is just incredible. I’m sure he knew what that number was, but he’s not a guy who wants to shout about those things as well,” Pope said.

On England’s plan for the fourth day, he said that his side is looking to bat once in the match.

“The plan is just to get as many as we can. I think this wicket will deteriorate over the next two days, so there’s going to be a real focus to drive that lead on to as big as we can and then put as much pressure on with the ball as we can too,” Pope said.

England ended a day 03 scoring 544 runs for 7 wickets, securing a 186-run lead over India in the Manchester Test.