England vs Pakistan 3rd Test: Day 1 – England Posts 267, Pakistan Struggles at 73/3
The excitement at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium reached its peak as the England vs Pakistan 3rd Test got underway. England, after winning the toss, chose to bat, looking to put up a strong total. However, the visitors experienced an early collapse. Thanks to Smith’s patient 89 and Duckett’s steady half-century, England managed a competitive 267 all out. Pakistan’s bowling attack was the standout, with Sajid Khan leading the charge with an impressive 6-wicket haul.
England’s First Innings: Key Highlights and Top Performers
England’s innings wasn’t smooth sailing, as wickets fell in regular intervals early on. Sajid Khan’s impressive performance, alongside Noman Ali’s spin, restricted the visitors. At one stage, England was reeling at 98-5, but Smith’s determined 89 off 119 deliveries steadied the ship. Supported by Atkinson’s gritty 39, England clawed their way to a total of 267 all out.
Sajid Khan’s bowling was sensational, taking 6 wickets for 128 runs, while Noman Ali added pressure with his 3-88. Zahid Mehmood also contributed with the crucial wicket of Smith, ending England’s innings.
For a detailed look at Sajid Khan’s bowling technique, check out this ESPNcricinfo article.
Pakistan’s Batting Response: Early Wickets Fall
Pakistan’s reply was far from ideal, with their top order collapsing early. Abdullah Shafique was trapped LBW by Bashir for 14, while Saim Ayub fell for 19. By the close of play, Pakistan had stumbled to 73-3, with Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel both unbeaten on 16. The hosts still trail by 194 runs and will need a big partnership from their middle-order batsmen on Day 2.
Kamran Ghulam’s dismissal for just 3 runs added to Pakistan’s troubles. With 7 wickets in hand, Pakistan will need to regroup if they are to mount a serious comeback.
Pakistan’s batting fragility has been a talking point in recent Tests, and Day 2 will be crucial for their recovery.
For insights into Pakistan’s batting struggles, check out this article on Cricbuzz
England vs Pakistan: Day 2 Expectations
Day 2 of the England vs Pakistan 3rd Test promises to be a critical day for both teams. Pakistan, trailing by 194 runs, needs to steady the ship with Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel at the crease. England, on the other hand, will be eager to maintain the pressure with their strong bowling attack, which has already taken three wickets.
England’s bowlers, particularly Leach and Atkinson, will look to break through Pakistan’s middle order. England will hope to dismiss Pakistan cheaply and gain a substantial first-innings lead.
For a detailed breakdown of England’s bowling plans, visit BBC Sport.
England’s Bowling Display on Day 1
England’s bowlers impressed on Day 1, with Jack Leach’s tight spin bowling and Atkinson’s control putting Pakistan on the back foot. Leach’s 10-over spell yielded just 33 runs while taking a crucial wicket. Bashir’s precision bowling also paid off, as he trapped Shafique LBW.
England’s bowlers will be aiming to further exploit Pakistan’s weakness on Day 2, potentially wrapping up the innings early.
For more insights into Jack Leach’s spin bowling techniques, check out this analysis from The Guardian.
Day 1 Stats: England vs Pakistan 3rd Test
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| England 1st Innings | 267 all out (68.2 overs) |
| Top Scorers | Smith (89), Duckett (52) |
| Best Bowlers (Pakistan) | Sajid Khan (6-128), Noman Ali (3-88) |
| Pakistan 1st Innings | 73-3 (23 overs) |
| Top Performers | Shan Masood (16*), Saud Shakeel (16*) |
| Wickets (England) | Leach (1-33), Atkinson (1-2), Bashir (1-29) |
Conclusion: Day 2 Outlook for England vs Pakistan
Day 2 of the England vs Pakistan 3rd Test will be pivotal as Pakistan looks to recover from a shaky start. England’s bowlers, led by Leach and Atkinson, will aim to press their advantage and bowl out Pakistan cheaply. The match remains balanced, but England holds the upper hand.
Stay tuned for more updates on the England vs Pakistan series as it progresses.