Ashes 2025-26: Alastair Cook believes THIS target will give England victory over Australia on Day 5 of SCG Test

The Edgbaston crowd roared. Joe Root, with the serenity of a seasoned maestro, had just guided England to a series-clinching victory against Pakistan in a Test match that will be etched in cricketing folklore.

England defeated Pakistan by three wickets on the fifth day of the second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Root's magnificent unbeaten century (109*) was the cornerstone of England's successful chase of 275. The match, punctuated by dramatic shifts in momentum, saw Pakistan initially dominate with a strong first innings total, only for England to claw their way back through disciplined bowling and, ultimately, Root’s brilliance.

It was a chase fraught with tension. Pakistan's bowlers, particularly Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, bowled with venom, exploiting the subtle movement on offer. England’s top order faltered, leaving Root to orchestrate the innings with textbook technique. He found willing allies in Ben Stokes and, crucially, in the lower order, who displayed remarkable composure under pressure. Root was watching the ball onto the bat, a clear sign of his focus. Good length deliveries were dealt with expertly.

Root's innings was a masterclass in Test match batting. He played with soft hands, deflecting balls into gaps and running hard between the wickets. His use of the sweep shot against the spinners was particularly effective, disrupting their rhythm and preventing them from settling into a groove. There wasn't a false stroke in his innings. It was clean as a whistle. This victory wasn't just about the runs; it was about the manner in which they were scored. It's about the application and fortitude displayed under immense pressure.

This win carries significant weight for England. Following a disappointing winter and a drawn first Test, this series victory provides a much-needed shot in the arm. It validates the team's direction under the new captain and coach. It proves that they are capable of competing, and winning, against quality opposition. And for Pakistan, this defeat will sting. They had their opportunities, particularly in the field, but ultimately couldn’t sustain the pressure when it mattered most. Did they let the game slip through their fingers?

The corridor of uncertainty troubled many batsmen throughout the match. Both seam attacks were relentless in probing that area. But Root seemed immune, either leaving with judicious ease or caressing the ball through the covers with a glorious, textbook cover drive. It was a joy to behold.

But cricket, as always, moves on. England will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for the upcoming Ashes series. Pakistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup and address the areas where they fell short. Their bowling attack remains potent, but their batting lacked the consistency required to win Test matches away from home. Can they find that consistency?

The final Test looms.