Joe Root scores his first Ashes century in Australia

England's highest Test run scorer had 39 previous centuries, but none had come in Australia, and he reached the landmark with a four off Scott Boland in the final session at the Gabba.

On three previous Ashes tours, Root had reached the 80s three times in Australia, with a top score of 89 at the Gabba four years ago.

But in the eyes of many observers needed to reach three figures Down Under to etch his name in the pantheon of cricket greats.

Root came to the crease with England wobbling at 5-2, but he built key partnerships with Zak Crawley and Harry Brook to dig the visitors out of trouble.

He initially scored quite freely but once Brook fell and the floodlights began to take effect, he played more conservatively.

But after crawling to 88, he smashed consecutive fours off Brendan Doggett to race to 96.

He brought up his ton with a leg glanced four off Scott Boland, running down the wicket with helmet off and arms aloft.

© 2025 AFP

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