Saud Shakeel, spin twins put Pakistan in strong position vs England in 3rd test

 


Saud Shakeel’s composed 134 helped Pakistan secure a valuable first-innings lead before their spinners dismantled England’s top order, putting Pakistan in a strong position on day two of the decisive third test in Rawalpindi on Friday.


Pakistan, initially struggling at 46-3, saw Saud build four partnerships over fifty runs, including key stands with tailenders Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, taking Pakistan to 344 all out — a 77-run lead that marked a significant shift in the game. Pakistan tightened their grip further, reducing England to 24-3 before bad light ended play at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.


Joe Root, not out on five, will be crucial to England’s survival hopes, while Harry Brook, at three, faces a tough task when play resumes on Saturday.


Starting the day, England captain Ben Stokes employed spin from both ends. Saud had an early escape on 26, edging Shoaib Bashir to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith’s shin, but was spared. Bashir struck back, however, dismissing Pakistan captain Shan Masood for 26, caught in the slips.


Rehan Ahmed (4-66) made an impact after a delayed introduction, trapping Mohammad Rizwan lbw for 25. Rizwan, challenging the decision in vain, lost a review on his way back. Rehan then dismissed Salman Agha similarly and later deceived Aamer Jamal with a googly, which the batter edged onto his stumps.


Saud and Noman, contributing an 88-run partnership for the eighth wicket, showed resilience and frustrated England’s bowlers. Saud reached his century with a single off Rehman, celebrating modestly before fist-bumping Noman. Bashir eventually dismissed Noman (45) lbw, England’s only breakthrough in the post-lunch session, though Pakistan’s tail continued to add crucial runs.


Batting at number 10, Sajid Khan scored a rapid 48 from as many balls, primarily through boundaries, including four sixes. He sustained a cut on his chin after a misplayed scoop shot but continued after changing his blood-stained shirt.


Saud’s innings ended when Gus Atkinson’s short delivery forced a fend to mid-wicket. His disciplined knock, featuring just five fours, stood out in Pakistan’s effort.


Returning with the ball, Sajid trapped England’s Ben Duckett (12) lbw on review, while Noman dismissed Zak Crawley for the fourth time in the series and added to Ollie Pope’s struggles, leaving Pakistan in a commanding position.


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