Joe Root believes defeating Pakistan in Test cricket remains a challenge

Joe Root on Saturday said beating Pakistan in their backyard remains "challenging" despite England's thumping series victory on the last tour in 2022, as the two teams are set for another three-Test affair starting here on Monday.

England swept aside Pakistan 3-0 in a ruthless manner in the winter of 2022 with their "Bazball" approach producing rich results.

Root hoped England's series win against Pakistan two years ago would help the visitors formulate their plans, but emphasised that the visitors will have to be at the top of their game.

Yes, that series has helped us prepare for the coming matches and we have a plan on how to play here. But this is a new series and we have to play well again to win again in Pakistan, Root told a media conference here on Saturday.

"We learnt a few things from that series, but (playing against) Pakistan at home is a challenge. Pakistan can definitely take advantage of their home conditions and we also have a couple of new young players eager to ..