Scripting history Joe Root becomes the first England batsman to achieve the unique ODI feat

England’s Joe Root (ANI Photo) Joe Root etched his name in England’s record books by becoming the first batsman from the country to register six consecutive fifty-plus scores in One-Day Internationals during the decisive third ODI against India at Lord’s on Sunday. The former England captain continued his remarkable consistency with an unbeaten 74 off just 49 balls, extending an extraordinary run of scores that now reads 61, 75, 111 not out, 76 not out, 99 not out and 74. Root’s final knock came as England piled up a dismal 387 for 3 after being asked to bat first in the final match of the three-match series. The innings also marked Root’s third consecutive half-century of the series as he remained unbeaten with scores of 76 and 99 in the opening two matches. His latest effort ensured he became the first England batsman to score six consecutive ODI innings of 50 or more. England’s impressive total was built on a dominant 192-run partnership between Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell. Duckett led the charge with a brilliant 141 while Bethell contributed a fluent 91 as the pair dismantled an inexperienced Indian attack. India were sorely missing Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of the decider due to reactive swelling in his left knee following an impact injury during the second ODI. Without their premier fast bowler, the visitors struggled to contain England’s batting, with the four-man attack conceding runs at regular intervals. After Duckett and Bethell laid the foundations, Root ensured that England kept the momentum going. He accelerated through the final overs, hitting another composed half-century before Jos Buttler added a blistering 41 off just 13 deliveries to push England close to the 400-run mark. Root’s latest milestone further underlined his exceptional form in the format as England strengthened their position in the decider with another commanding batting display.