Root Becomes Test Cricket’s Most Successful Catcher with 220 Dismissals

In a landmark moment for English cricket, Joe Root has become the leading catcher in Test history. His 220th dismissal came during the final match of the three‑game series against Pakistan, pushing him ahead of Australia’s former captain Steve Smith, who sits on 219 catches.

The record places Root above legends such as Rahul Dravid (210 catches), Mahela Jayawardene (205) and Jacques Kallis (200). While his fielding achievements dominate headlines, Root also delivered with the bat, scoring 164 runs in the series, including two fifties and a best of 66.

Overall, Root’s Test career now boasts 14,278 runs, 41 centuries, 69 half‑centuries and an average of 50.45, cementing his status as one of England’s most complete cricketers.