Joe Root Becomes England's Leading Test Run-Scorer: A Champion's Milestone

Joe Root surpasses Alastair Cook to become England's highest run-scorer in Test cricket, celebrated as an 'absolute champion' by Michael Atherton. Root's consistency and excellence over 12 years have etched his name in cricket history as one of England's greatest players.

Former cricketer Michael Atherton has showered accolades on Joe Root for becoming England's all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket, describing the 33-year-old as an "absolute champion." On Wednesday, Root achieved this monumental feat, surpassing Alastair Cook as the top run-getter for England in Test matches.

Root broke the record during the third day of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan, overtaking Cook's tally with a classic drive to reach 71 runs. Speaking to Sky Sports, Atherton praised Root's achievement, noting the "lovely moment" was marked by a quintessential 'Root-like' shot that exemplified his prowess.

"Twelve years of excellence," remarked Atherton. "Root's consistency and transformation of potential into performance put him among the greatest cricket players England has produced," he continued. Root now holds 12,473 runs in England's Test format, surpassing Cook's previous record of 12,472 runs.

Root sealed this milestone during the 43rd over against Pakistan's Abrar Ahmed, prompting an ovation from England's dressing room. At lunch on day three, England stood at 232/2, with Ben Duckett and Root contributing scores of 80 and 72, respectively, against Pakistan's dominant first innings score of 556.

The England squad included Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (captain), Root, Harry Brook, and others, while Pakistan's lineup featured Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (captain), and more, marking an exciting Test clash.

(With inputs from agencies.)