England extended their dominance on the fourth day of the first Test, with Joe Root and Harry Brook showcasing stellar performances against Pakistan. Resuming their innings at 492-3, the duo surpassed Pakistan’s first innings total of 556, reaching a formidable 658-3 by lunch.
Root remained unbeaten on 259, while Brook, with 218 not out, achieved his highest Test score. Together, they built a massive fourth-wicket partnership of 409 runs off 488 deliveries at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This partnership took England to a commanding 102-run lead.
Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled, with leg-spinner Abrar Ahmad unable to take the field due to fever, having already conceded 174 runs in 35 overs without a wicket. Adding to their woes, captain Babar Azam dropped a crucial catch, giving Root a lifeline off Naseem Shah’s bowling.
Root's innings began at 32* and saw him surpass Alastair Cook’s tally of 12,472 Test runs, cementing his legacy. Meanwhile, Brook scored his sixth Test century, including eight boundaries and one six, reaching the milestone in 118 balls.
Earlier, England lost opener Zak Crawley for 78, but they remained relentless, building a significant lead over Pakistan.
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