Vivian Richards praises 'phenomenal' Joe Root

Root has scored three half-centuries in last four innings against Pakistan in ongoing Test series.

Johannesburg: Legendary West Indies cricketer Vivian Richards has lavished praise on 'phenomenal' Joe Root after the England batsman reclaimed the top spot in the ICC Test batting rankings.

Root, who continued his rich vein of form during the second Test against Pakistan with knocks of 88 and 71, regained the numero uno position earlier this week.

Reflecting on Root's glittering career, Richards said the Englishman had done a magnificent job for a young man, adding that if he continues his stellar run he would become phenomenal, Sport24 reported.

The former Windies Test captain insisted that Root has what it takes to compete at the top and sustain it for a longer period of time.