England’s Batting Masterclass Against Pakistan in Multan Test

England’s white-ball captain, Jos Buttler, speculated on social media about the prospects of Joe Root or Harry Brook potentially challenging Brian Lara‘s all-time Test record of 400 runs in an innings. This contemplation arose after witnessing the dynamic performance of the two English batsmen against Pakistan during Day 4 of the first Test in Multan.

Harry Brook, who achieved a triple hundred against Pakistan, combined his efforts with Joe Root to decimate the Pakistani bowling attack. The pair’s remarkable partnership reached record heights, with each surpassing the 250-run mark. Despite the challenging conditions, their performance was a testament to England’s dominance on a pitch conducive to high scoring.

Brian Lara’s longstanding record of 400 not out remains untouched since 2004. However, with England’s commanding batting display at the Multan Cricket Ground, discussions arose about the possibility of breaking or equaling the feat. Root and Brook’s partnership ended when Joe Root, surpassing his previous highest score of 254, was dismissed for 262 by Agha Salman, a part-time bowler.

The extraordinary partnership for the fourth wicket set a new benchmark of 454 runs. However, the aggressive stance of Brook persisted as he partnered with Jamie Smith, intensifying the assault on Pakistan’s bowling.

Interspersed between the play was Joe Root’s milestone achievement, becoming England’s all-time leading run-scorer in Test matches, surpassing Sir Alastair Cook‘s record. Root’s innings of 176 not out set the stage for a potential first-innings lead over Pakistan’s 556, with England poised at 492-3.

Root’s monumental innings was conducted under punishing heat, a testament to his endurance and skill. The right-hander played a pivotal role in steering England back into contention, despite the high first-innings total posted by Pakistan.

The Multan pitch, renowned for being favorable to batsmen, allowed England to build a substantial innings lead. Previous instances have shown that England rarely concedes such high totals without returning to seize victory. Given their current form and strategic acumen, a triumph seems plausible.

Comments from fellow players and former cricketers highlighted the nature of the contest. Former England bowler Steven Finn remarked on England’s control over the Pakistani attack, emphasizing the dominance of Root. Similarly, Alex Hartley suggested England’s intent on continuing to accumulate runs to pressure Pakistan further in their second innings.