Pakistan seize control in Pindi test with Saud’s century and spin magic

English , Snippets , Sports - کھیل اور کھلاڑی , / Friday, October 25th, 2024

On day two of the decisive third Test in Rawalpindi, Pakistan took commanding control through Saud Shakeel’s masterful 134 and late spin bowling heroics. Despite early wobbles at 46-3, Pakistan mounted an impressive recovery to post 344, securing a valuable 77-run first-innings lead over England.

Saud’s innings, characterized by patience and smart batting, saw him forge crucial partnerships throughout the order, including significant stands with tailenders Noman Ali (45) and Sajid Khan (48*). His disciplined knock, containing just five boundaries, proved instrumental in Pakistan’s turnaround.

Rehan Ahmed led England’s bowling effort with 4-66, while Shoaib Bashir claimed key wickets. The day’s drama included Sajid Khan batting on despite a bleeding chin from a deflected ball, symbolizing Pakistan’s fighting spirit.

Pakistan’s spinners then struck decisive blows in the final session, reducing England to 24-3 before bad light intervened. Sajid Khan removed Ben Duckett, while Noman Ali continued his dominance over Zak Crawley, dismissing him for the fourth straight time in the series.

With Joe Root (5*) and Harry Brook (3*) at the crease, England face an uphill battle to save the Test. Pakistan, eyeing a series victory with the scoreline locked at 1-1, have positioned themselves strongly heading into day three.