Root wins first Test back as England captain as Pakistan folded inside three days at Headingley

Joe Root's second stint as England captain began with a victory: England beat Pakistan inside three days at Headingley. Fast bowlers Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson each took five wickets in an innings to dismantle Pakistan twice over. Root had previously led England for several years before stepping away from the role. BBC TMS reacted on 21 August 2026.