Only 26 runs separated Pakistan from accomplishing a record-breaking run-chase in the recently concluded second Test match against England in Multan today. In return, shortage of these 26 runs has meant that Pakistan have lost three consecutive home Test matches for the first time in 63 years.
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Chasing a 355-run target, Pakistan were bundled out for 328 in 102.1 overs as they failed to seal a run-chase for the second time in this series. The development has also resulted in Pakistan not winning even one out of their last five home Test matches.
With Pakistan needing 157 runs with six wickets in hand to win the match before play began on Day 4, it was very obvious that the match would come to a conclusion today itself. In spite of dominating most part of the first session on a Monday morning, Pakistan were found wanting after the dismissals of all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz (45) and batter Saud Shakeel (94) within 11 balls right before the lunch break.
Babar Azam admits Saud Shakeel debatable dismissal cost Pakistan Multan Test
Shakeel, in particular, emerged as a game-changing wicket for the visitors as the rookie batter was pretty resilient in his approach whilst playing a career-best knock. Missing out on a maiden Test century, Shakeel became victim in a debatable caught behind dismissal off England pacer Mark Wood.
Pick of the English bowlers in the second innings, Wood registered bowling figures of 21-2-65-4 dismissing both Nawaz and Shakeel in quick succession. Six short of a century, Shakeel gloved a short ball down the leg-side to England wicket-keeper Ollie Pope. Although replays put forward the notion that the ball had been grounded, third umpire Joel Wilson thought of the otherwise.
“It cost us the match. Jo hamein nazar aa raha tha, woh mere khyaal se lag raha tha [ki] ground mein touch ho gaya hai ball [The ball had touched the ground according to us]. But, as a professional, you have to respect the umpire’s decision,” Pakistan captain Babar Azam told the reporters during the post-match press conference at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
With England gaining an unassailable 2-0 lead in this three-match series, Pakistan will be looking to prevent a whitewash by not losing the third Test match in Karachi.
