England historically beat Pakistan during the first Test match in Multan, setting a new record while the hosts were reeling from defeat. Pakistan lost by an innings and 47 runs for the first time in the 147-year history of Test cricket after scoring 556 runs in their first innings. This article explores the main events of the match, amazing performances, and the impact it had on Pakistan's cricket team going forward.
Pakistan's Promising Start
Pakistan started their innings with confidence, with centuries from Agha Salman, Shan Masood, and Abdullah Shafiq. Saud Shakeel scored 84 runs to help Pakistan post a big score. However, England's excellent batting performance overshadowed their efforts.
England's Massive Response
In reply to Pakistan's first innings score, England batted aggressively and declared the innings at 823 runs. Joe Root's brilliant 262 and Harry Brook's incredible triple century supported this historic score. Apart from providing a strong base, the performance of these two increased the pressure on Pakistan's bowling unit, making it difficult for them to stop the English batsmen.
Jack Leach's Bowling Brilliance
Jack Leach, who took four wickets in Pakistan's second innings, was a vital member of England's bowling attack. His technique and accuracy rattled the home team, playing a key role in destroying Pakistan's lower order. Leach's ability to be an all-rounder was evident when he took a brilliant catch of Shaheen Afridi off his bowling.
Historical Fall For Pakistan
Pakistan was the first team in history to lose a Test match by an innings after scoring over 500 runs in the opening innings, and the defeat was a new low for the cricket team. With this result, the team's troubling trend continues. They have now lost seven of their last nine matches at home and six in successive Tests. Pakistan are now bottom of the World Test Championship standings, which could have a serious impact on their hopes of winning the tournament.