MUKTAN: Noman Ali and Sajid Khan combined for the second time in the match to lead Pakistan to a 152-run victory over England in the Multan test. This marked Pakistan’s first home Test win since 2021, leveling the series at 1-1 and providing a much-needed boost for the team and their captain, Shan Masood.
The match turned dramatically during a spectacular session where England lost eight wickets in less than two hours, undone by Pakistan’s relentless spin attack. Noman Ali stole the show with a breathtaking performance, taking seven wickets and finishing with impressive match figures of 8 for 46 and 11 for 147. Sajid Khan supported him brilliantly, claiming 7 for 111 in the first innings and contributing the final two wickets, making them the first bowling pair since legends Dennis Lillee and Bob Massie in 1972 to take all 20 wickets in a Test match.
Despite it being only day four, the pitch had already endured nine days of play, exhibiting significant turn that heavily favored spin bowlers. England, needing 261 runs for victory, looked to assert their dominance with aggressive sweeping tactics, particularly from Ollie Pope and Joe Root. However, their plans quickly crumbled.
Pope’s dismissal came early, as he poked Sajid’s second delivery straight back to the bowler. Joe Root, after just eight balls, succumbed to lbw after a failed sweep, leaving England in deep trouble. Harry Brook attempted to counterattack but was soon trapped in front by Noman, pushing England down to 78 for 5 and staring at defeat.
As the innings spiraled, Jamie Smith fell to a top-edge shortly after striking Noman for a boundary. Ben Stokes provided a brief flicker of hope with a rapid 37, but his reckless swing resulted in a stumping by Mohammad Rizwan, encapsulating England’s struggle throughout the match.
Noman’s onslaught continued as he dismissed Brydon Carse after a few big hits, followed by quick wickets of Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir, sealing Pakistan’s emphatic victory. This triumph not only showcased their mastery of spin on a challenging surface but also ended a frustrating run of six consecutive defeats under Masood’s captaincy.
With the stage now set for the third Test in Rawalpindi, Pakistan’s spin duo has left an indelible mark, reminding everyone of their formidable prowess in home conditions.
