Pakistan’s cricket enthusiasts were offered a thrilling spectacle on Saturday as Pakistan clinched a historic victory against England, securing a long-awaited Test series triumph at home. This remarkable win took place on the third day of the third Test in Rawalpindi and marked Pakistan’s first home Test series victory since February 2021, an interlude stretching 1357 days.
The series commenced on a challenging note for Pakistan as England seized a commanding innings victory in the opening Test match. However, showing immense resilience and determination, the Pakistani team made a formidable comeback, winning the subsequent two matches to claim a 2-1 series victory. This achievement was not just a testament to Pakistan’s cricketing prowess but also a validation of their strategic acumen, bolstered by individual brilliance.
The third Test saw Pakistan capitalize on their momentum. England’s batsmen faced an unfathomable collapse during their second innings, amassing a mere 120 runs. This left Pakistan with a modest target of 36 runs which they chased down with remarkable ease, losing only one wicket in the process. The collapse began after a promising start by England’s fourth-wicket partnership between Joe Root and Harry Brook, which had added 46 valuable runs.
The turning point came when Noman Ali, Pakistan’s left-arm spinner, shattered England’s hopes by claiming Harry Brook’s wicket in the 20th over. From thereon, England’s batting line-up disintegrated, leaving fans in disbelief over the sudden capitulation.
Veteran batsman Joe Root was the standout performer for England, contributing 33 runs in their second innings. Yet, his efforts were eclipsed by Pakistan’s bowling duo, Sajid Khan and Noman Ali. Sajid Khan, who emerged as the day’s main protagonist, claimed ten wickets over the match, with six of those coming in England’s second innings.
. In doing so, Sajid etched his name in history as the first spinner to take ten wickets in a Test match in Rawalpindi.
His counterpart, Noman Ali, also played a crucial role, securing four wickets in England’s second innings and can be credited for triggering England’s dramatic collapse. The synergy between these two bowlers was a joy for Pakistani fans, as they combined skill and strategy to dismantle England’s batting fortitude.
Pakistan’s batting lineup, although briefly unnerved by the early dismissal of opener Saim Ayub, showed composure. Jack Leach’s delivery dismissed Ayub in just the third over, but this was only a minor blip. Abdullah Shafique partnered with Shan Masood to see the hosts through to victory, their calm demeanor ensuring Pakistan’s win with nine wickets to spare.
The win was met with ecstatic celebrations across the nation, with fans rejoicing not only for the victory but for the brand of cricket that Pakistan displayed. The team’s playing XI — captained by Shan Masood and featuring players like Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan — came together as a cohesive unit, showcasing both emerging talent and experienced strategy.
This series victory is expected to be pivotal for Pakistani cricket, reigniting passion in domestic cricket and boosting the morale of both players and fans. Such a commanding performance against a team of England’s caliber is anticipated to foster greater interest and participation in cricket throughout the country.
On the other side, England, led by Ben Stokes, will look to regroup and analyze the challenges faced during the series. Despite the disappointing outcome, individual performances, such as those of Root and young talent Harry Brook, provided glimpses of promise that the England management will aim to build upon in future series.
As cricket fans await their subsequent actions, both teams now have the opportunity to reflect and prepare for further international tours. For Pakistan, this victory serves as a reaffirmation of their potential, leaving a hopeful outlook for future endeavors in global cricket arenas.
