Most Runs In WTC History: Zak Crawley Surpasses Rohit Sharma With A Blistering Fifty Vs Pakistan
Zak Crawley Surpasses Rohit Sharma [Source: @FlashCric/X.com]
In an exciting turn of events at the Multan Cricket Stadium, England’s Zak Crawley has surpassed Indian captain Rohit Sharma in the list of most runs in the World Test Championship (WTC). Crawley’s rise to the 7th spot came during the first Test against Pakistan, where his consistent performance helped him overtake Rohit Sharma, one of the world’s premier openers.
Before this Test, Crawley had accumulated 2,560 runs, placing him just behind Rohit. However, with his brilliant knock of 78 runs in the first innings, Crawley took his total WTC runs to 2,638, moving past Rohit Sharma’s 2,594 runs. Though Rohit has played fewer innings (58) and boasts a higher average of 47.16 compared to Crawley’s 35.17, Crawley’s sheer number of runs earned him this milestone.
The WTC runs leaderboard is currently topped by another England player, Joe Root, who has a staggering 5,022* runs to his name. Despite the stiff competition, Crawley’s achievement puts him among cricket’s elite, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches.
In the match itself, Crawley’s 78 runs came off just 85 balls. His innings played a vital role in England’s response to Pakistan’s impressive first innings total of 556. Pakistan’s big score was anchored by centuries from Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, and Salman Agha, showcasing a stellar batting display from the home side.
Zak Crawley's Fine Knock Comes To An End
Crawley’s innings, however, ended when he was dismissed by Shaheen Afridi. Afridi bowled a full-length delivery on the leg stump line, and Crawley, attempting to flick it through mid-wicket, ended up hitting the ball straight to Aamir Jamal at short mid-wicket. Though Jamal fumbled the catch initially, he managed to take it on the second attempt, bringing Crawley’s gritty innings to an end.
At the time of writing, England are at 181 for 2, with Joe Root and Ben Duckett steady at the crease.