Root and Brook Smash Centuries as England Dominate Pakistan’s 556

England closed day three of the first Test on 492 for 3, just 64 runs behind Pakistan's first-innings total of 556. The innings were highlighted by exceptional centuries from Joe Root (176) and Harry Brook (141), leaving Pakistan’s massive total feeling insufficient.

Joe Root surpassed Sir Alastair Cook’s record to become England’s highest Test run-scorer, registering his 35th Test century. Root’s performance, a masterclass in consistency, featured 12 boundaries and came after he spent all day at the crease. Brook, on the other hand, provided a counterbalance with an aggressive knock, smashing 141 off 173 balls, and continuing his remarkable form against Pakistan.

England's strong reply followed a solid foundation laid by openers Zak Crawley (78) and Ben Duckett (84). Crawley’s innings ended when he flicked Shaheen Afridi straight to Aamer Jamal. Duckett, despite surviving a dropped catch, was dismissed for 84 by Jamal.

Brook’s arrival at 249 for 3 saw England’s run-rate surge, as he reached his half-century in just 49 balls. Despite a spread-out field and some reverse swing from Pakistan’s bowlers, Brook powered through, hitting the first six of the innings to reach his century.

Both Root and Brook had moments of fortune – Root surviving an LBW appeal, and Brook’s block ricocheting off his helmet but missing the stumps. Pakistan’s struggles were evident as England scored at a brisk 4.83 per over, leaving the hosts facing a tough challenge. With Root and Brook still at the crease, a first-innings lead seems likely for England.