In a stunning turn of events on the second day of the first Test between Pakistan and England in Rawalpindi, the hosts have taken a commanding 77-run lead, leaving the visitors reeling at 24-3 at stumps. Despite the setback, England leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed remains optimistic about his team’s chances, insisting that the game is “still level” and that the dressing room atmosphere remains positive.
Shakheel’s Gritty Knock Shifts Momentum
Pakistan’s resurgence was largely due to a defiant innings by middle-order batsman Saud Shakheel, who crafted a painstaking 134 off 339 deliveries, spending over five hours at the crease. His knock, which included 86 singles and just five boundaries, helped Pakistan post a formidable total of 344, putting pressure on England’s batsmen in the final session.
When you play on such a pitch, you can get any ball that does something unpredictable. You just have to have a clear mind and plan.
– Saud Shakheel on his approach to batting on the Rawalpindi surface
Partnerships Prove Crucial for Pakistan
Shakheel found valuable support from Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who contributed to partnerships worth 160 runs. Their efforts not only frustrated the England bowlers but also allowed Pakistan to build a substantial lead, putting the tourists under immense pressure as they began their second innings.
Rehan Ahmed’s Optimism Amidst Adversity
England’s 18-year-old debutant, Rehan Ahmed, was the pick of the bowlers, claiming four wickets in the innings. Despite his personal success, the youngster acknowledged that his best is yet to come and that he is constantly learning and enjoying the experience.
We’re still positive. There’s no sense of negativity or heads down. Everyone still knows there’s a job to do, and we can’t wait to do it.
– Rehan Ahmed on the team’s morale after a challenging day
England’s Batting Woes Continue
England’s top order once again faltered, losing three key wickets in the nine overs they faced before stumps. However, Rehan Ahmed believes that with the depth in England’s batting lineup, they can still make a comeback in the match.
We’ve got so much batting in the locker room. Obviously, three down is not ideal, but it is what it is.
– Rehan Ahmed on England’s batting prospects
The Road Ahead
As the Test match enters its third day, England face an uphill battle to stay in the contest. The pitch continues to pose challenges, with uneven bounce and turn on offer for the spinners. Pakistan’s bowlers will look to capitalize on these conditions and put further pressure on the English batsmen.
For England to mount a comeback, they will need their middle and lower order to showcase the resilience and adaptability that has become a hallmark of their Test cricket under the leadership of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum. The likes of Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Foakes will be crucial to England’s chances of overturning the deficit and setting a competitive target for Pakistan in the fourth innings.
The first Test between Pakistan and England has already produced enthralling cricket, with momentum shifts and individual brilliance on display. As the match progresses, cricket enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly watching to see if England can stage a remarkable fightback or if Pakistan will continue their dominance on home soil.
