Shan Masood’s maiden Test century as Pakistan’s captain set the tone for a strong first day against England in the opening match of the three-day Test series in Multan. Masood’s impressive 151, combined with Abdullah Shafique’s solid 102, built a formidable 253-run partnership for the second wicket, taking Pakistan to a commanding total of 328 for four by the end of the day. The hosts capitalized on a strong start and held firm control despite the late efforts by England’s bowlers in the Pak vs Eng Test match.
England’s young and inexperienced bowling attack, featuring debutant Gus Atkinson and spinner Jack Leach, struggled to make early breakthroughs under the sizzling Multan heat. While they managed to dismiss Saim Ayub cheaply in the fourth over, the duo of Masood and Shafique resisted further damage, making the English bowlers toil through most of the day in the Pak vs Eng clash.
Masood’s innings, his first Test century in four years, was played with authority and aggression, coming at a crucial time for Pakistan, who had been on a dismal run of form in home Tests since 2021. Shafique’s measured approach at the other end complemented Masood’s fluency, frustrating England’s bowlers who found it difficult to adapt to the placid conditions during the Pak vs Eng Test series.
England’s late comeback in the final session came when Gus Atkinson dismissed Shafique and Jack Leach sent back Masood, but Pakistan continued to control the game. The late dismissal of captain Babar Azam provided England some respite, but they still have a lot of work to do to get back into the Pak vs Eng contest.
Masood and Shafique’s remarkable partnership has given Pakistan the perfect platform to push for a big first-innings score and break their long streak of home losses. This solid foundation will be key as they look to regain confidence and turn their fortunes around in front of their home crowd during this crucial Pak vs Eng encounter.
