On a day that saw Pakistan fight valiantly to recover from early setbacks, Kamran Ghulam’s resilient century was the highlight, lifting Pakistan to 259 for 5 against England at the close of play on day one of the second Test in Multan.
The 29-year-old Ghulam, in just his debut Test match, demonstrated remarkable composure and skill as he battled to an innings of 118, helping to steady the ship after Pakistan had been reduced to a precarious 19 for 2. His effort not only marked a personal triumph but also provided Pakistan with a platform to potentially build a competitive total.
Ghulam’s innings was a crucial counter to England’s strong bowling attack, led by their senior spinner Jack Leach, who struck early and looked dangerous throughout. Ghulam, however, showed no signs of nerves in his maiden Test innings. After surviving a few nervous moments, including a tense wait in the 90s, he brought up his century with a joyous swing through the leg side of Joe Root.
His innings was a testament to his long and steady rise through the ranks of Pakistan cricket, having spent over a decade performing in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. It was only in recent months that Ghulam’s consistent form earned him a Test call-up, and he made the most of the opportunity, offering a glimmer of hope for a team that has struggled in recent months.
Ghulam was eventually dismissed by Shoaib Bashir, who took the second new ball late in the day and managed to bowl him out with a well-executed delivery that clipped the top of his leg stump. Nevertheless, Ghulam’s innings gave Pakistan something to build on, with the team in a solid position at 259 for 5 at the end of the day.
Saim Ayub also added valuable runs to Paksitan’s inning with a career-best 77. His innings was patient, full of grit, and helped lay a foundation after early wickets from England’s seamers, who had exploited the conditions well in the afternoon session. Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan was also unbeaten at the close, holding firm on 37 not out, and providing valuable support to the tail.
The day had started poorly for Pakistan, as England’s bowlers made early inroads. Jack Leach, who has been a thorn in Pakistan’s side throughout the series, made the breakthrough in just the tenth over, dismissing Abdullah Shafique for 7. Shan Masood followed soon after, falling for just 3, as Pakistan found themselves reeling at 15 for 2.
However, it was Ghulam and Ayub who steadied the ship. Ghulam’s assured handling of Leach and the English seamers was notable, and he eventually brought up his first fifty from 104 balls. Ayub, similarly, was composed, navigating the English attack with confidence, and after tea, Pakistan looked to be in better shape.
Despite their solid resistance, Pakistan did face further setbacks. England’s seamers, led by Ben Stokes and Brydon Carse, continued to ask questions with their pace and reverse swing. Carse, in particular, made a key breakthrough after tea, removing Saud Shakeel for 4 with a sharp delivery. England had a few more chances, notably when Ben Duckett failed to hold onto a sharp chance from Ghulam on 79, but the breakthrough they craved came only in the final stages of the day.
The threat for Pakistan now lies in the hands of England’s bowling attack, particularly their seamers and Leach, who have been the standout performers so far in this series. While the pitch at Multan was expected to offer spin, it has remained tricky, with conditions that could offer reverse swing, which England exploited to good effect.
With the ball expected to continue reversing, Pakistan’s ability to push past 300 could prove crucial. They will be hoping that Rizwan can continue his fight and that the lower order can chip in to build a competitive total.
England, meanwhile, will be buoyed by the breakthrough late in the day and will aim to press home their advantage on day two. If they can break through Pakistan’s lower order quickly, they will be in a strong position to impose themselves on this Test match.
Also read: BCCI Drops Impact Player Rule for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
