MULTAN, Pakistan (Reuters) -Joe Root smashed an unbeaten century after overtaking Alastair Cook as England's top run-scorer in test cricket and guided the team to 351-3 at tea on the third day of their opening match against Pakistan on Wednesday.

Root began the day on 32 not out, needing a further 39 runs to eclipse Cook's tally of 12,472, and the former captain eased to his target with an on-drive for four off Aamer Jamal before soaking up loud applause from the travelling English fans.