LEEDS (Web Desk) - England Test captain Joe Root has broken Australian star Steve Smith’s world record for the most catches by a fielder in Test cricket.
Root achieved the milestone during England’s first Test against Pakistan at Headingley, becoming the fielder with the most catches in the history of the format.
The England captain surpassed Smith’s tally during Pakistan’s second innings on Friday when he took a sharp catch at leg slip off Jofra Archer’s bowling to dismiss Azaan Awais.
The catch was Root’s 219th as a fielder in Test cricket, moving him past Smith’s previous record of 218 catches.
Also Read: England crush Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs in first Test
Root’s achievement came during a dominant performance by England, who defeated Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs in the opening Test to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Pakistan began their second innings with a 238-run deficit but struggled once again with the bat.
The visitors were bowled out for just 135 in the 38th over, handing England a comprehensive victory.
Root’s record-breaking catch added another landmark to his remarkable Test career as England took an early advantage in the series.