RAWALPINDI: Saud Shakeel on Friday registered his fourth career century in the first innings of the third Test against England at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Shakeel’s 136 runs helped Pakistan mount a remarkable recovery after the team found themselves struggling at 7 for 177.
Shakeel, who came to the crease when Pakistan was in a precarious position, played with poise and resilience. He formed a vital partnership with Noman Ali, as the pair added 88 runs for the eighth wicket, significantly reducing the deficit and stabilizing the innings.
After facing 222 balls, Shakeel was ultimately dismissed by Atkinson, who bowled him out in the 96th over. His departure marked a turning point, as he had helped lift the team from the brink, leaving Pakistan with a commendable total of 344 runs.
Sajid Khan also played a pivotal role in bolstering the team’s score, contributing a brisk 48 runs off just 48 balls, which included two fours and four sixes. His partnership with Shakeel was the second highest of the innings, adding much-needed momentum to the batting lineup.
Noman Ali provided further support, scoring 45 runs off 84 balls before being dismissed by Shoaib Bashir, who capitalized on a knee roll to trap him LBW. Shakeel’s innings featured five boundaries, while Noman chipped in with two fours and a six.
In a disappointing finish, Zahid Mehmood was the last man out for Pakistan, dismissed for a duck on the first ball he faced, bowled by Rehan Ahmed, who ended the innings with impressive figures of four wickets.
Ultimately, Pakistan concluded their first innings at 344 runs, establishing a lead of 77 runs over England, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the match.
