5 longest Test knocks of all time 

#3 Alastair Cook vs Pakistan, Abu Dhabi (2015) – 836 minutes

Alastair Cook's ability to bat big is second to none.

This is the only knock in this list from the 21st century. On what looked like a belter of a pitch at Abu Dhabi, Pakistan batted first and posted 523. Shoiab Malik scored a fantastic 245 while Asad Shafiq made a fine 107 to help Pakistan get over the 500-run mark.

In a surprising move, Pakistan opted to go with just one spinner – Zulfiqar Babar - but it was still an uphill task for England. However, skipper Alastair Cook led from the front as he scored a majestic 263. He led the visitor’s reply beautifully as they scored 598 before declaring the innings.

Cook played exceptionally well as he batted for almost 14 hours in that searing Abu Dhabi heat. He played both spin and pace well, seeing out the good deliveries and punishing the loose ones. His innings of 263, which came in 528 deliveries, consisted of just 18 fours - which shows the grit and patience Cook displayed.

The innings gave England a handy 75-run lead after which the bowlers came out firing, dismissing Pakistan for just 173. While chasing 99, England made 74 in 11 overs before bad light helped Pakistan escape with a draw.

Cook was awarded the man of the match for his exceptional effort.