Test cricket, frequently hailed as the "topmost format in the world of cricket," is more than just a sport; it's a craft—a drafted masterpiece that unfolds over multiple days. Each match is a unique symphony of skill, strategy, and perseverance, where every ball bowled and every run scored contributes to a narrative that will inspire the new generation.

The essence of Test cricket lies in its ability to capture the spirit of perseverance and adaptability according to the playing conditions. Batters must battle against fatigue and elements, facing ferocious bowling attacks to construct innings of substance. Bowlers, in turn, must outsmart their opponents with a combination of skill, craftiness, and unwavering patience. Fielders also play a pivotal role, displaying exceptional athleticism, focus, and a keen eye throughout all five days of the fixture.

Test cricket is a true test of character as much as it is a test of skill for a cricketer. A few cricketers have mastered the art of Test cricket at a remarkably young age. In this article, we present you with a list of five cricketers who were the youngest to play their 100th Test match. For more insights and updates on the world of cricket, visit https://cricketexpert.net.

1) Alastair Cook (England) – 28 years, 353 days

Alastair Cook was not a gifted talent from England. However, his patience and strong will worked in favour of the player and soon Cook became the match-winner for England in the red-ball format. He played his 100th Test at the age of 28 years and 353 days. Overall, Alastair Cook was part of 161 Test fixtures for England. He scored 12472 runs at an average of 45.35 and a strike rate of 46.95. In his entire career, Cook scored 33 centuries and 57 half-centuries. Cook announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 33, which is a very young age for any cricketer to leave the game.

2) Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 29 years, 134 days

Indian cricket has produced some of the best batsmen in the world. However, no one came close to what Sachin Tendulkar did for the team and for the country. Sachin made his debut for Team India at the age of 16 and soon became a heartthrob of the nation. He played his 100th Test at the age of 29 years and 134 days. Overall, Sachin was part of 200 Test fixtures in his entire career and scored 15921 runs at an average of 53.78. In 2013, the God of Cricket retired from all the formats of cricket and was last seen playing against West Indies at his home ground Wankhede Stadium.

3) Joe Root (England) – 30 years, 37 days

England cricket has seen the roller coaster ride of Joe Root in Test cricket. However, Root is finally getting his dues paid in the red-ball format and he is now on his way to breaking multiple records. Joe played his 100th Test at the age of 30 years and 37 days. Overall, Joe Root has scored 12402 runs in 146 fixtures at an average of 50.6 with a strike rate of 56.9. He is still young and a lot is yet to be achieved in Root’s career.

4) Mark Boucher (South Africa) – 30 years, 39 days

The Proteas have excelled in the art of Test cricket in recent times and Mark Boucher has been the inspiration for the young guns of South Africa. Boucher played his 100th Test at 30 years and 39 days. He scored 5515 runs in 147 Tests in his entire career at an average of 30.3 and a strike rate of 50.1. Mark Boucher played his last Test against Sri Lanka in 2012.

5) Stuart Broad (England) – 30 years, 139 days