As England began their innings, they faced early challenges with Ben Duckett falling to Sajid Khan, while Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope were dismissed by Noman Ali. England now trails by 53 runs, with Harry Brook and Joe Root at the crease, looking to build a strong partnership on what is known as ‘Moving Day’ of the match. Stay tuned for the next day’s action as England works to close the gap.
The final session belonged to Pakistan, who showcased a combination of steady and aggressive batting. Saud Shakeel played a measured innings, anchoring Pakistan’s score with a solid 134 before his dismissal. Supporting him, Sajid Khan played a quick-fire 48 not out, helping Pakistan reach a total of 344, securing a lead of 77 runs over England.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower-order batters made a significant impact after Lunch, adding 80 runs with the loss of just one wicket. This effort leveled the scores and erased the earlier deficit. Noman Ali and Saud Shakeel formed a solid 88-run partnership, expertly handling the spin attack, which left the English bowlers struggling to dismiss Pakistan’s tail.
As the day wound down, the light began to fade, and the umpires called for stumps, bringing an intriguing day of Test cricket to a close at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The momentum swung multiple times throughout the day. Resuming in the extended morning session at 73/3, Pakistan managed to add 114 runs in 39 overs while losing four vital wickets. Rehan Ahmed’s excellent spell of bowling stood out as he claimed three quick wickets. At Lunch, Pakistan was trailing by 80 runs, with Shakeel unbeaten on 72, determined to bring Pakistan closer to England’s total.
What a day it was, filled with shifting fortunes and stellar performances from both sides!
