England’s Joe Root and Harry Brook put on an impressive fourth-wicket partnership of 300+ runs during the ongoing Test match against Pakistan. Root reached a double century with a reverse sweep, showcasing his brilliant form with the bat. Brook also played exceptionally well, reaching a score of 150 from 186 balls. The duo’s partnership is one of only four 300+ fourth-wicket partnerships in England’s history.
Since being dismissed with an infamous reverse ramp shot in Rajkot earlier this year, Root has scored over 1100 runs at an average of 92. Notably, he has not hit a single six during this time, highlighting his focus on building his innings with classical strokeplay.
England’s dominance continued as they used the heavy roller with hopes of expanding cracks on the pitch, but the ball failed to create significant movement off the surface. Pakistan’s main spinner, Abrar Ahmed, was sidelined due to illness, further adding to their woes. Root was dropped early in his innings, providing Pakistan with a lifeline that they failed to capitalize on.
The Bazball-era England team, under captain Ben Stokes, has a record of avoiding draws with just one draw in 29 Tests. The team’s aggressive approach to playing for a win rather than settling for a draw will be tested in the current match against Pakistan, where they resume with a deficit of 64 runs. Root and Brook’s exceptional batting performances have set the stage for an exciting day of cricket ahead.
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