The Yorkshireman marked the achievement with an ironwilled unbeaten 176 as the tourists hit back on day three in their series opener against Pakistan.
It was a masterclass of endurance occupying eight hours and one minute, with Root defying the debilitating effects of cramp and fatigue to deliver for his team.
It was a fitting way to surpass Cook the former captain who handed him a debut in Nagpur 11 years ago and neatly summed up the drive, desire and determination which have propelled him to the summit.
He now sits fifth on the alltime list, bettered only by Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar, and his insatiable hunger means he is already being tipped to top the lot.
"I'm obviously proud but still feel there is plenty more left to do and many more runs left to get," said Root.
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