Top 5 batting performances - The Ashes in England 2013

3) Joe Root (180, 2nd Test, 3rd innings)

Joe Root of England celebrates his century during day three of the 2nd Investec Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 20, 2013 in London, England. (Getty Images)

The only knock by an Englishman and the only 2nd innings knock in this list. After bundling out Australia for 128 and taking a lead of over 200 in the first innings, England found themselves in a spot of bother at 30 for 3 with Cook, Trott and Pietersen back in the pavilion. The other opener Root had not acquitted himself in his new role so far and talks about Nick Compton reclaiming his position at the top of the order had started to surface.

It was exactly at this point of time that Joe started taking root. With nightwatchman Bresnan for company, Root led England to a position where they could feel safe and, then with Ian Bell, he started counter-attacking the Australian bowlers. Slowly but surely, he ground Australia out of the match and by the time he was dismissed trying to up the ante, the match had long slipped out of the opposition’s grasp. He did his bit with the ball too sniping out the two half-centurions Usman Khawaja and Clarke.