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Pakistan Hold Their Nerve on a Thrilling Final Day of the Rawalpindi Test Against England The 3rd Test between Pakistan and England is turning out to be an
The 3rd Test between Pakistan and England is turning out to be an intense competition at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with both teams locked in a tight battle by the second session on Day 2. Pakistan ended the session at 267/8, which is the same total England made in the first innings. With the match poised so delicately, Saud Shakeel’s century has been the highlight of Pakistan’s innings, which has kept them afloat in this important encounter.
Saud Shakeel rode the storm for Pakistan, scoring 107 runs off 191 deliveries with four boundaries. His patience has given Pakistan a much-needed boost against some fine bowling by England, ensuring that Pakistan will be in this game.
Shakeel’s defiance, against a seasoned Jack Leach and England’s emerging star Shoaib Bashir, is what has kept Pakistan in the game. His watchful presence at the crease was, till now, crucial in seeing off England’s spin-heavy attack with wickets falling regularly.
England’s bowlers, led first by Shoaib Bashir and later supported by Jack Leach, have kept a tight line and length which has made Pakistan fight for every run.
Shoaib Bashir: 31 overs, 99 runs, 3 wickets
Jack Leach: 25 overs, 74 runs, 1 wicket
Despite leakage at times, Bashir has been England’s most effective bowler, breaking up key batters with timely breakthroughs. The wicket of Noman Ali for 45 has come at an critical juncture with Pakistan falling to 265/8 and ensuring England remain firmly in the contest.
The score is now even on 267 runs with both teams as a lot will depend on how Pakistan can advance with the last two wickets. Sajid Khan was back in the middle with Shakeel trying to squeeze important runs that might give Pakistan an edge going into the second innings of England .
With still 29 overs left to be bowled on Day 2, Pakistan will thereafter look to stretch their innings and take a slender lead. For England, they will look to wrap up the innings as soon as possible and start their second innings afresh.
The game is turning out to be an engrossing contest, with pitch conditions getting progressively worse as the game wears on. It is going to be a first session on Day 3, and it looks like that might prove to be the most decisive. Both teams are jostling for control of this crucial Test.
So far, the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test has been an engaging affair. The two sides have shown skill and perseverance. While the century by Saud Shakeel has kept Pakistan in the game, bowlers of England have made sure hosts don’t run away with advantage.
The match still remains to be a nail-biter as three days remain, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide are on the edge of their seats to await who takes control.
