YORKSHIRE County Cricket Club superstar Joe Root overhauled Sir Alastair Cook to become England's record Test run-scorer today, 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.

It was a fitting way to surpass Cook - the former captain who handed him a debut in Nagpur 11 years ago - and neatly summed up the drive, desire and determination which have propelled him to the summit.

He now sits fifth on the all-time list, bettered only by Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar, and the Yorkshireman's insatiable hunger means he is already being tipped to top the lot.

It was a perfect pitch for Root to achieve the feat - stubbornly flat and with barely a hint of seam or swing to ruffle the batters' feathers - but England still needed their most reliable asset to come good.

Having watched Pakistan pile up 556 over the first two days, there was no other choice.

England reached stumps a few hours ago just 64 behind on 492-3, with Keighley native and Harry Brook producing a dashing 141 not out.

Harry Brook scored a typically attacking century as part of an unbroken fourth wicket partnership of 243 for England.Harry Brook has scored a typically attacking century, as part of an unbroken fourth wicket partnership of 243 for England. (Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire.)

In total, the two unbeaten Yorkshire team-mates are involved in a bumper stand worth 243 and counting.

Yet it will be a challenge for either side to force a result unless the surface begins to offer more assistance for the bowlers than it has thus far.