In the second Test match of the series, Pakistan defeated England by a commanding 152 runs at Multan, levelling the scores at one. The game’s standout performer was spinner Noman Ali, who claimed an incredible eight wickets in the second innings, good for figures of 8 for 46, and helped England to a 297 total at a cost of just 144 runs.
Under the weight of Noman Ali’s skill, England’s batting crumbled, and they were bowled out in just 33.3 overs. Noman’s outstanding effort allowed him to take 11 wickets in the match, making him a crucial component in Pakistan’s triumph. Sajid Khan, his partner, was also instrumental in the second innings, taking two vital wickets, but his 2 for 93 stats were insignificant in the face of Noman’s valiant efforts.
After scoring 366 in the first innings and 221 in the second, Pakistan set England a formidable target of 297. In their chase, England, who had scored 291 in their opening innings, collapsed, with very few batsmen offering any opposition. Despite Joe Root’s 38 runs, Pakistan’s spin attack was too much for any of the other batters to withstand.
Pakistan’s victory was confirmed when Abdullah Shafique caught England’s last man, Shoaib Bashir, off Noman Ali’s bowling for a golden duck.
Pakistan has levelled the series with their victory, paving the way for an intriguing decider in the final Test. One of the best bowling performances ever by Noman Ali will go down in history, and the squad will be hoping to continue this momentum into the series decider.
(T:297) 291 and 144
Ollie Pope was dismissed for 22 off 38 balls by Sajid Khan after he struck twice, skilfully using a caught and bowled catch.
Although Pope and Joe Root had previously shown some resistance, Pope’s exit has put England in danger. Sajid’s explosive session now stands at 6.2-0-27-2, while Noman Ali added the crucial wicket of Ben Duckett to send England reeling at 37/3.
England currently has a difficult assignment as Pakistan’s spinners find significant turn and bounce on the fourth-day surface. England began the day needing 260 runs to win. Joe Root remains at the crease with 12 runs from 26 balls, but with 260 more runs required and seven wickets in hand, England will need a special effort to avoid defeat.
With over 88 overs remaining in the day, the match hangs in the balance, but Pakistan hold the upper hand as their bowlers continue to apply pressure.
