Last Updated on 5 months ago by Charbel Coorey

He’s done it. He’s finally done it. All the talk around Joe Root never scoring a Test century in Australia can be put to bed, as England’s greatest achieved the feat on the opening day of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba.

Root brought up the landmark – his 40th Test century overall – with a leg glance off the bowling of Scott Boland. Apart from a close call on two, plus a very nervous time in the 80s and 90s, Root looked assured after walking in at 5/2. He batted with composure as his teammates threw away wickets at the other end, keeping the Australians at bay and ensuring England began the important Test with a very competitive first innings total.

Root’s mastery in strike rotation was on show again. He didn’t look rushed yet the scoreboard kept ticking, with his shot selection excellent for the most part. Until his nervous 90s, he selected which deliveries to play at outside offstump and cashed in when Australia bowled too short and straight.

Reactions: England thrilled as Joe Root achieves landmark Test hundred in Australia

“No doubt before. No doubt now. A true great of the game,” England Cricket’s official X account read.

“It’s nice that after waiting 12 years for it, Root’s first ton in Australia comes when the UK is awake to see it. Whadda player,” wrote CricViz’s Ben Jones.

Here are some of the reactions to Joe Root’s first Test hundred in Australia, including humorous references to Matthew Hayden.

Joe Root finished day one unbeaten on 135 off 202 balls with England reaching 325/9 thanks to a very handy 10th wicket partnership with Jofra Archer (32*).

Root’s innings has put England right in the contest after losing badly inside two days at Perth.