Pakistan vs England: Pakistan Reach 397/6 at Lunch as Saud Shakeel Anchors Innings Against England’s Bowling Attack
Pakistan showcased a strong performance on day three of the first Pak vs Eng Test match in Multan, reaching 397/6 at lunch. Saud Shakeel led the charge with an unbeaten 67, marking his 10th 50-plus score in just 13 Tests. His composed innings has been crucial in steering Pakistan towards a potentially match-winning first-innings total. Meanwhile, it was the nightwatchman Naseem Shah who posed the biggest challenge for England, frustrating them with a resilient 33 off 81 balls.
Naseem’s defiant innings in the Pak vs Eng clash included three sixes and a vital 64-run partnership with Shakeel, which stalled England’s bowling attack for over 90 minutes. His determined effort left England searching for answers and ensured there was no quick path back into the game. Brydon Carse eventually dismissed Naseem to secure his maiden Test wicket, while Jack Leach removed Mohammad Rizwan to restrict Pakistan’s scoring. However, Pakistan still managed to add 69 runs in the morning session, strengthening their position.
On the first day of the Pak vs Eng Test match, England showed some promise by claiming three late wickets, including that of captain Babar Azam. When play resumed on the second day, Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson continued to probe Naseem’s technique around the off-stump. Despite a few early misses, Naseem held his ground, scoring his first boundary through a well-timed shot and surviving a tricky edge off Atkinson.
As Shakeel approached his half-century in the ongoing Pak vs Eng series, England switched to spin from one end and short-ball tactics from the other. Naseem even took a hit on the helmet from Atkinson but responded aggressively, launching Shoaib Bashir for a six over long-on. Shakeel soon reached his fifty—his fifth against England in just four Tests—while Naseem continued to attack, comfortably surpassing his previous Test best of 18.
Naseem’s entertaining innings in the Pak vs Eng Test match featured two more sixes off Jack Leach before he eventually fell to Carse’s round-the-wicket delivery, edging into the hands of leg slip. Although England managed to break the partnership, they will need to remove Shakeel quickly to restrict Pakistan’s total and stay competitive in this match.
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