Joe Root surpasses Jacques Kallis in Test appearances during first Test against Pakistan

Joe Root scripted history on August 19, 2026, when he walked out for the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley in Leeds and became the player with more Test appearances than Jacques Kallis. Root's 167th Test cap moved him past Kallis's tally of 166, drawing him level with Stuart Broad in the all-time list of Test appearances.

The milestone arrived on a day that went largely in England's favour. Pakistan were bowled out for 171 in their first innings, and England closed day one on 112 for 2, with Root unbeaten on the crease, who came into the pitch following the fall of the second wicket.

England's bowlers set the tone early on day one at Headingley, restricting Pakistan to 171 all out in their first innings. Josh Tongue was the standout performer with the ball, claiming five wickets for 46 runs from 9.1 overs, a return that gave England a firm grip on the match from the outset.

"We’ve obviously had a great day, obviously winning the toss this morning. And, how we started this morning, and obviously Ollie Rob was excellent. And I thought as a bowling unit, we were very good and glad that we bowled them out. (On Ollie Robinson’s first-ball wicket and his performance) I know, it’s unbelievable. It’s similar to Lords against New Zealand. He’s obviously an exceptional bowler when he hits his lines and lengths, and he’s shown that today," Tongue said as quoted by IndiaTV.

Root's 167th Test appearance places him alongside Stuart Broad, who also played 167 Tests during his career. Both men have now surpassed Kallis, who retired with 166 Test caps to his name. Root remains an active player, meaning his tally is set to grow further as the England vs Pakistan series continues.

Root's contribution with the bat on day one was equally important for England's cause. Coming in after the second wicket fell, he made 37 not out from 53 deliveries to help England reach 112 for 2 by stumps, helping the hosts to reduce the trail to 59 runs with eight wickets still in hand heading into day two at Headingley.