England v Pakistan: Joe Root reveals he was ‘revved up’ to make the biggest score of his life

JOE ROOT revealed he was “revved up” to make the biggest score of his life by a barren summer.

He smashed 254 as England declared at 589-8 against Pakistan in the Second Test — and the tourists were 57-4 at the close of day two.

Root, who was averaging just 24 in home Tests this year, said: “It was really special. It was something that I won’t forget.

“It’s not quite worked out recently so it was nice to go out and get a big one. That’s why I was so revved up when I got to 200.

“A lot of hard work has paid off and it was very good to have that feeling.”

Yorkshireman Root, 25, was roared on by the vocal Old Trafford crowd, who were revelling in England’s domination.

He punched the air and yelled in delight at bringing up his second double hundred with a reverse sweep off Yasir Shah.

Root grinned: “Who would have thought a Yorkshireman would get that reception here! Everyone was cheering.

“It was an amazing atmosphere and makes it very enjoyable to be out there in the middle.”

Root was moved up a place to No 3 at the start of this series.

He said: “I’ve only had three innings there but it is nice to get a big score early on when batting at three.”

After England declared, Chris Woakes ripped through Pakistan’s top order with figures of 3-18.

Root added: “Every time he gets the ball you feel he’s going to get wickets.”