Joe Root delivered a masterclass in batting as England wrapped up a comprehensive victory over Pakistan on the fourth day of the second Test at Lord's, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Root's unbeaten 124 anchored England's successful chase of a target of 214, guiding the hosts to a five-wicket win with more than a day to spare. The victory extended England's winning run at home and underlined their dominance in the series.
Root's century seals the chase
Root, who had already scored a hundred in the first innings, became the first England player to score centuries in both innings of a Lord's Test since 1997. His second-innings knock came off 187 balls, with 14 fours and a six, as he shared a decisive fifth-wicket partnership of 94 with Ben Stokes.
The chase was set up by disciplined bowling earlier in the day, with England dismissing Pakistan for 289 in their second innings. James Anderson took three wickets, while Ollie Robinson and Mark Wood claimed two apiece, leaving Pakistan's spinners to defend a modest total.
Series sealed with a game to spare
The win means England have now won eight of their last nine Tests at home, a run that has re-established them as a formidable force in the longest format. Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to salvage pride in the final Test at Headingley, which begins on September 10.
England's captain, Ben Stokes, praised Root's performance, saying: "He's the best player I've ever played with. To do that twice in a game at Lord's is special."
