Pakistan’s Spin Masterclass Levels Series Against England in Multan
Pakistan secured a commanding 152-run victory over England in the second Test in Multan, levelling the three-match series 1-1. On a re-used pitch that provided sharp turn and uneven bounce, Pakistan’s spinners dominated as England were bowled out for just 144 on day four, falling short of their 297-run target.
It was a triumph for Pakistan, who had made bold selection decisions and gambled on a spin-friendly surface. Noman Ali, with remarkable figures of 8-46 in the second innings, led the charge, while his partner in spin, Sajid Khan, contributed crucially across both innings. For England, this defeat was a setback after their record-breaking first Test win, but they have much to reflect on before the decider in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan’s Bold Selections Pay Off
In a Test that was always going to be shaped by spin, Pakistan made some daring choices. Out went the talismanic Babar Azam and pace bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, while in came a group of spinners and an untested Ghulam Kamran, who stepped into Babar’s shoes with a debut hundred. This was Pakistan’s response to their humiliation in the first Test, where England racked up 823-7 declared, leaving the hosts humiliated and extending their winless streak in Test cricket to 11 matches.
The decision to stick with the pitch used for the first Test, which had already shown signs of significant wear, was a risk. However, Pakistan’s management backed their spinners, and the gamble paid off handsomely. Noman Ali and Sajid Khan ran through England’s batting line-up with devastating efficiency, exploiting every bit of the pitch’s treacherous nature.
England’s Missed Opportunities
For England, there will be regret over missed opportunities. A collapse of 8-80 in their first innings after Ben Duckett’s century set them back, while two crucial dropped catches in Pakistan’s second innings allowed the hosts to extend their lead. Jamie Smith and Joe Root both spilled chances off Salman Agha, who went on to score a vital 63 runs, putting the target beyond England’s reach.
It is worth noting that despite the loss, England had moments of control. Duckett’s impressive hundred in the first innings and some brave late-order hitting in the second, particularly from Ben Stokes and Brydon Carse, showed glimpses of the attacking cricket that has defined England’s approach under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
Pakistan’s Spin Dominance
The story of the match, however, was Pakistan’s spinners. Noman Ali’s 11 wickets across both innings, including a magnificent 8-46 in the second innings, were crucial. His left-arm spin was relentless, and he capitalised on England’s aggressive approach. Sajid Khan, though less spectacular, was equally effective, claiming nine wickets in the match. The pair bowled unchanged through England’s second innings, sharing the workload for 33.3 overs, an impressive feat in modern Test cricket.
England’s attempts to counter the spinners with aggression played into Pakistan’s hands. Ollie Pope was dismissed early on day four, giving a simple return catch to Sajid. Root, Harry Brook, and Jamie Smith followed quickly, all falling to ill-judged attacking strokes. Even Stokes, sweeping and reverse-sweeping at every opportunity, couldn’t escape the pressure, succumbing to Noman after a brief counter-attack.
Looking Ahead to Rawalpindi
As the series heads to Rawalpindi for the decider, there are questions for both sides. England will need to reconsider their approach to spin-friendly conditions and assess their strategy for what is likely to be another challenging surface. Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to build on the momentum of this victory. Shan Masood’s leadership was key, and the confidence gained from this win could be the boost they need to claim the series.
The third and final Test begins on Thursday, 24 October, and promises to be another enthralling contest. For England, a series win is still within reach, but they will need to adapt quickly to avoid a repeat of their struggles in Multan.
