Joe Root etched his name deeper into cricket history, becoming England’s all-time leading run-scorer with a masterful century against Pakistan in Multan. Starting day three with 32 runs, Root needed just 39 more to surpass Sir Alastair Cook’s record of 12,472 Test runs—a mark he achieved before going on to deliver one of his grittiest innings, finishing the day unbeaten at 176. In sweltering conditions, Root’s knock pushed England to 492-3, just 64 runs shy of Pakistan’s massive 556.
The record-breaking day saw Root and his younger counterpart Harry Brook, who contributed an unbeaten 141, put on an England record of 243 runs for the fourth wicket in Pakistan. The pair’s partnership set the tone for a relentless assault on the bowlers, frustrating the hosts and giving England a realistic chance at a first-innings lead after an unexpected start. England’s resilience shines even brighter given that no team has ever conceded as many as 556 and gone on to take the lead in an overseas Test.
The day had plenty of drama. After solid contributions from Zak Crawley (78) and Ben Duckett (84), England built steady momentum. Brook had a stroke of luck when a delivery hit the stumps but didn’t dislodge the bails—a rare and fortunate escape at 75. Root, meanwhile, crafted a patient, efficient century, his 35th in Tests, battling cramps and oppressive heat while showing off his full repertoire of shots, including a cheeky reverse sweep to reach his hundred.
The pitch in Multan has offered little assistance to bowlers, ranking among the flattest of any Test track in the world, and England have seized on this. Pakistan’s first innings, initially imposing, looks less intimidating in light of England’s unyielding progress. With two days remaining, England are in the driver’s seat and have options to push for a win rather than settle for a draw.
Strategic Decisions Ahead: Declarations and Double Centuries
As Root continues his innings, he’ll be eyeing a potential double century while England consider their best path to victory. Though England are known for bold declarations, they may hold off this time to maximize their first-innings total and build the pressure on Pakistan. Any second-innings chase would be on a pitch likely to worsen, adding to the challenge for the hosts.
Root’s achievement—surpassing Cook’s mark with a stylish straight drive—comes as no surprise. His appetite for runs, even on tough surfaces, has made him one of the game’s most consistent batters. This 176* innings only reinforces his stature, sparking speculation on whether he could one day challenge Sachin Tendulkar’s world record of 15,921 Test runs. For now, Root’s goal is clear: a double hundred and, ultimately, leading England to an unforgettable win.
