Root and Brook Propel England in a Batting Bonanza

Joe Root celebrated a remarkable achievement on day three in Multan, scoring his 35th Test century and becoming England’s all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket. His stellar performance was complemented by Harry Brook, who finished the day unbeaten on 141, and Ben Duckett, who contributed a solid 84, as England mounted a vigorous reply to Pakistan’s formidable total of 556. By stumps, England had reduced the deficit to just 64 runs, firmly placing them in a commanding position.

Brook’s innings marked his fourth century in just four Tests in Pakistan, a testament to his growing prowess on the international stage. He thrived alongside Root, especially in the final sessions, where they amassed an impressive 141 runs together. Their partnership of 243 runs for the third wicket set a record for the highest stand for any wicket for England in Pakistan, effectively frustrating the Pakistani bowlers who toiled without reward. Brook had a moment of fortune on 75 when he narrowly avoided a chop-on off Aamer Jamal as the bails remained unmoved. Root also benefited from a successful overturned LBW review later in the day. However, such appeals were rare amidst the batting onslaught.

The day’s play began with Zak Crawley sending an emphatic message by driving Shaheen Afridi through the covers. However, the Pakistani pace spearhead eventually claimed his wicket, dismissing Crawley for a well-crafted 85, leaving England at 121 for 2. Duckett, returning from a thumb injury that kept him from opening the previous day, showed no signs of discomfort, quickly putting the pressure back on the Pakistan bowlers. He attacked Abrar Ahmed with two boundaries followed by three more in a single over, racing to 34 off just 26 balls, signaling his intent to dominate.

As the session progressed, Root and Duckett reached their half-centuries, with Root notching his milestone just before the drinks break. Duckett soon followed suit, further solidifying his strong record against Pakistan. Despite some encouraging signs of reverse swing from the Pakistani pacers, including a close LBW shout against Root, the home side struggled to find a breakthrough. Root’s boundary off Naseem Shah boosted his score and propelled him past Alastair Cook’s total, narrowing the gap between him and the game’s all-time greats. The celebration that followed Root’s achievement was a personal milestone and a significant moment in English cricket history.

After lunch, Root resumed confidently. However, Pakistan found success early on when Duckett fell short of his century. He was dismissed for 84 after a brisk innings that showcased his attacking style. Despite this setback, Brook signaled his intent immediately, scoring quickly to keep the momentum alive. He continued to dominate, racing to his fifty off just 49 balls, while Root steadily approached his own century. With his landmark 35th ton, Root joined an elite club, now only behind four other players in Test cricket’s history. His focus and skill under pressure reflected his status as one of the premier batters in the world.

In the closing stages of the day, Brook’s aggressive approach contrasted with Root’s more measured style as he neared his 150. The new ball was taken, but it did little to change the course of the match; Brook flourished against it, driving the ball through the covers and quickly finding boundaries. This partnership became a formidable wall for Pakistan as the bowlers struggled to find a breakthrough. Brook’s ability to see the gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking, while Root, with his trademark precision, capitalized on every scoring opportunity.

As the day drew close, Root and Brook’s unbroken partnership left Pakistan’s bowlers searching for answers. The pair had established a commanding presence, and England looked poised to take control of the match heading into day four. The crowd, buzzing with excitement, anticipated further milestones as Root and Brook continued their pursuit of runs, determined to turn the tide in England’s favor. The day was not just a celebration of individual achievements but a testament to the power of partnership in cricket, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the Test match.

Check out more related topics: Tamim Advocates for Local Coaches’ Development and Ascension

Stand behind your favorite player! Explore our site to find ways you can show your support today.