Joe Root and Harry Brook Break Test Cricket Records in Multan
In a thrilling display of skill, Joe Root and Harry Brook created history in the Multan Test against Pakistan, forging an incredible 454-run partnership. This stand not only broke the record for the highest-ever 4th wicket partnership in Test cricket, which had stood since 2015 but also set a new record for the highest partnership away from home, surpassing Australia's 1934 feat.
Root’s magnificent 262 not only added to this monumental effort but also saw him surpass Alastair Cook to become England's all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket. This milestone now places Root among the cricketing greats, solidifying his status in the game's history. His partnership with Brook is also the highest ever against Pakistan, making this match a special chapter in cricket history.
The Journey to a World Record Partnership
Root and Brook’s partnership began at a critical juncture of the match. Facing a challenging Pakistani bowling attack on Day 4, the pair displayed immense concentration, patience, and an array of attacking shots. Overcoming tough conditions, they gradually built their innings, steadily increasing the pressure on Pakistan’s bowlers.
With Root's calm experience and Brook's aggressive flair, the two complemented each other perfectly. The partnership eventually shattered the previous 4th wicket record of 449 runs, held by Australia’s Adam Voges and Shaun Marsh, which they set against the West Indies in Hobart, 2015.
Root’s Legacy: Surpassing Alastair Cook
The day was particularly special for Joe Root, who also achieved a monumental personal milestone. By surpassing Alastair Cook, Root became England’s all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket. With over 20,000 runs across formats, 51 centuries, and countless match-winning performances, Root’s career has been remarkable, placing him among the legends of the game. He now sits 5th on the all-time list of Test run-scorers, ahead of icons like Sunil Gavaskar and Brian Lara.
Brook’s Rising Star
While Root’s achievement grabbed headlines, Harry Brook's impressive batting was a statement of his potential. The young England batter showed maturity beyond his years, handling the Pakistani bowlers with confidence. Brook’s contribution to this record-breaking stand underscores his bright future in international cricket. His role in such a significant partnership will likely be remembered as one of the key moments that defined his career.
Records Smashed in One Test
Several records were broken during this historic Test:
Highest 4th wicket partnership in Test history: 454 runs (Root & Brook)
Highest partnership away from home in Test cricket for any wicket
Highest partnership against Pakistan in Test cricket, for any wicket
Although the Root-Brook stand fell short of challenging the overall highest partnership record in Test cricket—held by Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara (624 runs)—their partnership still etched its place in the annals of the sport.
England’s Continued Test Dominance
England’s aggressive and successful batting approach under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, popularly termed “Bazball,” has been on full display during this series. Their focus on positive cricket has allowed players like Root and Brook to thrive, and the records they are breaking reflect the success of this philosophy.
Root’s dismissal for 262 by Agha Salman finally ended his innings, but the foundation he laid, alongside Brook, set England up for a potential victory. Their partnership will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in Test cricket history.
Conclusion
This record-breaking day for England underlines their Test cricket supremacy and shows how teamwork and individual brilliance can combine to create history. Joe Root's achievements continue to redefine the boundaries of English cricket, and with Harry Brook’s star on the rise, this partnership may signal the dawn of a new era of dominance for England in the longest format of the game.
Reference From: sports.ndtv.com