Leeds, August 21, 2026: England’s Joe Root has reclaimed the record for the most catches in Test cricket, overtaking Australia’s Steve Smith during the second innings of the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on Friday.
Root, who has returned as England’s Test captain, reached the landmark when he caught Pakistan opener Azan Awais for nine runs at leg slip off the bowling of Jofra Archer. The dismissal took Root’s Test catch tally to 219, moving him one ahead of Smith, who has 218 catches.
Root had previously claimed the record after surpassing India great Rahul Dravid, who finished his Test career with 210 catches. Smith had briefly drawn level with Root after taking three catches in Australia’s recently concluded Test against Bangladesh in Darwin.
With 219 catches, Root now leads the all-time list, followed by Smith on 218 and Dravid on 210. Sri Lanka’s Mahela Jayawardene is fourth with 205 catches, while South Africa legend Jacques Kallis finished his Test career with 200 catches.
Archer Strikes Twice
Root’s record-breaking catch came after England successfully set a trap for left-handed opener Azan Awais. England positioned Root at leg slip, and Archer eventually induced Awais into a flick towards the fielder, allowing Root to complete the catch.
Archer had earlier dismissed Pakistan’s other opener, Imam-ul-Haq, for a duck. The England pacer deceived Imam with a delivery that was not as short as the batter anticipated, resulting in a glove through to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith.
England Take Control
England had earlier posted a commanding 409 in their first innings, with Harry Brook scoring 91, Jordan Cox making 73 and Joe Root contributing 66.
Brook once again missed out on a century at Headingley. He had previously been dismissed for 99 at the venue against India in June last year.
England’s strong batting performance followed an impressive bowling display that saw Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson claim five wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 171 in their first innings.
Root’s latest milestone adds another landmark to an already distinguished Test career, as England continue to press for victory in the opening match of the series against Pakistan.
