Pakistan showcased their dominance in the second Test match against England in Multan, extending their lead to 209 runs in a gripping session on Day 3. The hosts added 91 runs in the afternoon session, albeit losing two crucial wickets.
One of the notable dismissals was that of Mohammad Rizwan, who fell for 23 runs. Brydon Carse, despite a dodgy left leg, managed to get Rizwan out for the third time in the series with a simple catch to slip. Carse also had a couple of close calls with Agha Salman in the same over, but missed opportunities from Jamie Smith and Joe Root allowed Salman to survive.
The first breakthrough for England in the afternoon session came from Jack Leach, who pinned Kamran Ghulam in front. Earlier in the morning, Sajid Khan’s impressive figures of 7 for 111 led to a quick end to England’s innings as they were bowled out for 291. Despite starting the day at 239/6, England managed to add some crucial runs before being dismissed.
Pakistan picked up a handy lead of 75 runs after England’s innings, stretching it to 118 at Lunch. However, they lost three wickets in the process, ending the session at 43/3. Brydon Carse had some lucky breaks early in the day, surviving a tough chance and a review for leg-before before eventually falling to Sajid Khan. Khan went on to pick up two more wickets in the same over.
The last wicket partnership between Leach and Shoaib Bashir kept Pakistan waiting, but Sajid Khan eventually ended the stand by dismissing Bashir. England’s innings came to an end within the first hour of play.
In their second innings, Pakistan faced a tough challenge from England’s spinners, with Leach and Bashir finding some assistance from the wicket. However, the Pakistan openers managed to negotiate the spinners for the first five overs before Abdullah Shafique fell to Bashir’s bowling. Shan Masood and Saim Ayub also fell victim to Bashir before Lunch.
With the brief scores showing Pakistan at 366 & 134/5 and England at 291, it is clear that Pakistan has taken control of the match. Saud Shakeel’s valuable contribution of 30 runs and Shoaib Bashir’s impressive bowling figures of 3-46 have put Pakistan in a strong position heading into the final stages of the Test match. As the match progresses, all eyes will be on how Pakistan continues to build on their lead and how England plans to make a comeback.
Key Players to Watch
As Pakistan continues to dominate the second Test match against England, key players to watch include Shoaib Bashir, who has been exceptional with the ball, picking up crucial wickets to put pressure on the England batting line-up. His skillful bowling has been a highlight of Pakistan’s performance in the match so far, and his contributions will be crucial in maintaining their control over the game.
On the batting front, Shan Masood has shown promise with a solid start in the second innings. His ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships will be vital for Pakistan to set a challenging target for England to chase. With his experience and composure at the crease, Masood could play a pivotal role in guiding Pakistan to a commanding position in the match.
England’s Response
As England looks to mount a comeback in the match, they will need their bowlers to step up and take quick wickets to restrict Pakistan’s lead. Spinners like Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir have already made an impact, and they will be key in exploiting any weaknesses in the Pakistani batting line-up. England’s pace attack will also need to be disciplined and patient in their approach to break through Pakistan’s defenses.
With the match delicately poised heading into the final stages, England’s batsmen will have to show resilience and adaptability against Pakistan’s bowling attack. Players like Joe Root, who have the ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships, will need to lead from the front and guide England’s chase if they are to level the series.
Final Thoughts
As the second Test match between Pakistan and England unfolds, the momentum is clearly in Pakistan’s favor as they hold a significant lead heading into the final innings of the game. However, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and England has the talent and determination to stage a comeback and make the match a thrilling contest till the end.
With both teams showcasing their skills and resilience on the field, cricket fans can expect an exciting finish to the Test match as the battle between bat and ball intensifies. The outcome of the match will not only have implications on the series result but also shape the narrative of the contest between these two cricketing nations. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds on the cricket field in Multan.