Category: Cricket, Sports

Pakistan Dominate with 556: England 460 Runs Behind in First Test Battle

Pakistan Piles On 556, Leaving England 460 Runs Behind in First Test at Multan Multan, Day 2: Pakistan 556, England 96-1

The first Test match between Pakistan and England in Multan is shaping up to be an enthralling contest, as Pakistan’s batsmen laid down a massive first-innings score of 556. By the close of play on day two, England found themselves 460 runs behind, with Zak Crawley and Joe Root attempting to lead a recovery at 96-1.

Pakistan’s top order produced an impressive display, with three centurions: Shan Masood (151), Abdullah Shafique (102), and Salman Ali Agha (104*). England’s bowlers, despite putting in a determined shift, struggled under the sweltering Multan heat, and their frustrations were compounded by a few missed opportunities.

Pakistan’s Batting Masterclass

The day started with Pakistan continuing their dominance from day one. Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique had laid a solid foundation, and it was Salman Ali Agha who added the finishing touches with a remarkable century. His unbeaten 104 showcased his resilience and patience, as he carefully navigated through England’s varied bowling attack.

England did manage to pick up wickets at regular intervals, but it was too little too late. Jack Leach, though expensive, was the standout performer for the visitors, grabbing 3 wickets for 160 runs. Leach’s persistence finally paid off as he trapped Saud Shakeel (82) and nightwatchman Naseem Shah (33), providing some hope of limiting the damage.

However, Salman Ali Agha capitalized on the tiring bowlers and continued to pile on the runs. His partnership with Shakeel was crucial in keeping Pakistan ahead in the game, and Salman’s composure under pressure demonstrated the depth of Pakistan’s batting order.

One of the key moments in Pakistan’s innings came when Salman survived a near-dismissal. Chris Woakes pulled off an acrobatic catch near the boundary line, only for it to be overturned by the third umpire. Replays showed Woakes had overstepped the boundary in his attempt to complete the relay catch. This decision kept Salman at the crease, and he went on to register his maiden Test century.

England’s Response: A Challenging Task Ahead

When England finally took to the field to bat, they faced an uphill task. Chasing 556, the visitors lost Ollie Pope early. Pope had been promoted to open in place of Ben Duckett, who injured his thumb earlier in the match. Unfortunately, Pope fell for a low score, pulling a delivery straight to Aamer Jamal, who took a brilliant one-handed catch at mid-wicket.

With the pressure mounting, Zak Crawley and Joe Root came together at the crease. The duo displayed remarkable calmness under the scoreboard pressure, showing great discipline and intent to fend off Pakistan’s lively attack. Crawley, in particular, looked in fine form, striking the ball with confidence and authority. By the close of play, he had reached 64*, while Root was unbeaten on 32*.

England’s immediate focus will be to chip away at the mammoth total set by Pakistan. The pitch is still offering plenty of assistance for the batsmen, but with the cracks beginning to appear, batting on days three and four could become increasingly difficult.

Missed Opportunities and Woakes’ Frustration

Had Chris Woakes’ stunning boundary catch been upheld, it might have shifted momentum slightly in England’s favor. Woakes, back-pedaling at long-on, threw himself into an incredible effort to catch Salman Ali Agha, but the replay review showed his foot had grazed the boundary line.

Woakes’ frustration was clear, but the team rallied around, showing admirable spirit in the field despite the scorching conditions. Yet, as Salman continued to accumulate runs, England’s bowlers found themselves drained and worn out by the relentless pressure from Pakistan’s batting.

What Lies Ahead for England?

With Pakistan’s huge first-innings score, England finds themselves in a familiar situation under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum. Interestingly, England has previously conceded over 500 runs on two occasions since McCullum took over, and in both instances, they went on to win the match. However, this Pakistan team, playing in home conditions, presents a much sterner test than England has faced in similar circumstances.

As the match progresses, all eyes will be on England’s top order to see if they can build significant partnerships and stage a comeback. The pitch, though true, is starting to show signs of wear, and batting could become increasingly difficult in the later stages of the game.

Zak Crawley and Joe Root will need to build on their positive start on day three, while the rest of the lineup, including Ben Stokes, Harry Brook, and Jonny Bairstow, will be crucial in putting up a competitive reply. England’s approach will be key: do they bat with caution, or will they try to replicate the aggressive style of cricket that has become synonymous with the McCullum-Stokes era?

Conclusion

At the end of day two, Pakistan holds the upper hand in this gripping first Test in Multan, with a massive total of 556 on the board and England trailing by 460 runs. England’s response, led by Zak Crawley and Joe Root, offers some hope, but the challenge ahead remains immense. The outcome of this Test could hinge on how well England’s middle order performs under pressure on day three.

With the weather still expected to be hot, fatigue will also be a factor for both sides. England will be hoping their resilience can pay off as they look to claw their way back into the game.