JOE ROOT overhauled Sir Alastair Cook today to become England’s record Test run-scorer then marked the achievement with an iron-willed century as the tourists hit back in their series opener against Pakistan.

Needing 71 to overtake Cook’s mark of 12,472, Root carried his bat for the entirety of day three to carve out 176 not out in Multan.

It was a masterclass of endurance occupying eight hours and one minute, with Root defying the debilitating effects of cramp and fatigue to deliver for his team.