On Day 2 of the second test between England and Pakistan in Multan, Ben Duckett showcased his brilliance with a rapid half-century, helping England put up a strong reply to Pakistan’s first innings total of 366.
Duckett’s aggressive batting set the tone as England reached 88-1 at tea, trailing by 278 runs with nine wickets intact. The stage is now set for an exciting contest as the visitors aim to build on their solid start.
Duckett Leads the Charge
Ben Duckett, the England opener, wasted no time in getting England’s innings underway. His 12th test half-century came off just 47 balls, highlighting his intent to put pressure on the Pakistan bowling attack.
By tea, Duckett was unbeaten on 53, providing a much-needed solid foundation for England’s reply. Duckett’s ability to adapt to the conditions in Multan, combined with his aggressive stroke play, has given England the momentum they need.
Early Setback as Crawley Departs
England didn’t have it all their way, though, as Zak Crawley, Duckett’s opening partner, was dismissed for 27. Crawley started confidently, but his innings was cut short after being caught behind off left-arm spinner Noman Ali.
Pakistan successfully reviewed a not-out decision by Sri Lankan umpire Kumar Dharmasena, leading to Crawley’s dismissal. Despite this early setback, Duckett and Ollie Pope ensured that England remained in control at the break, with Pope not out on five.
Pakistan’s Spin Strategy
Pakistan, opting for a spin-heavy attack in this test, introduced offspinner Sajid Khan as early as the second over. With only one frontline seamer in Amir Jamal, Pakistan captain Shan Masood has heavily relied on spin to take early wickets.
Sajid nearly made the breakthrough when Crawley survived a run-out attempt, but Pakistan had to wait until Noman Ali’s successful review to break the opening partnership.
The home side’s bowlers, though lacking in pace, have shown resilience, and their spin tactics will play a crucial role in the remainder of this test.
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England’s Task Ahead
England’s reply to Pakistan’s 366 is critical, especially with the pitch in Multan expected to deteriorate as the game progresses. Duckett’s fast scoring has given England a strong platform, but they will need their middle order, including star players like Joe Root and Ben Stokes, to fire if they are to surpass Pakistan’s total.
With a lead of 278 runs to cut down, England’s primary focus will be on batting through the remaining sessions with composure. The likes of Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, and the all-rounder Brydon Carse will also be key to ensuring that England stays competitive in this test.
Pakistan’s Frustrating Tail-End Resistance
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s tail frustrated England by adding valuable runs. Pakistan resumed the day at 259-5, but thanks to crucial contributions from Amir Jamal and Noman Ali, the hosts managed to push their total to a respectable 366.
The pair’s 49-run partnership for the ninth wicket was particularly valuable, frustrating England’s bowlers.
Brydon Carse, one of England’s key bowlers in this match, delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with 3-50. He made the first breakthrough after lunch, bowling Jamal with the very first delivery after the interval.
Carse’s fellow seamer, Matthew Potts, was equally impressive, taking 2-65, including the vital wicket of Salman Agha.
Jack Leach’s Consistency with the Ball
Spinner Jack Leach played a crucial role in wrapping up Pakistan’s innings, taking 3-114. His dismissal of Noman Ali, caught in the deep by Carse, ended Pakistan’s resistance and allowed England to take control. Leach had earlier removed Sajid Khan for just two runs, caught at short cover by Joe Root.
Leach’s ability to generate turn on the Multan pitch will be vital for England as they look to put pressure on Pakistan in the later stages of this match. His consistent line and length, combined with his ability to pick up key wickets, make him an essential player for England in this test.
The Series So Far
England came into this test with a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, following an impressive innings victory in the first test, also played in Multan.
With momentum on their side, England will be looking to press their advantage and seal the series with another commanding performance.
However, Pakistan is not a team to be taken lightly, especially on home soil. The hosts will be hoping for early breakthroughs in England’s innings, particularly as the pitch starts to offer more assistance to the spinners. If Pakistan can dismantle England’s top order quickly, they will remain in contention for a strong result in this match.
