Multan: Pakistan Test opener Shan Masood delivered a masterful century, guiding his team to a commanding total of 328/4 on the first day of their highly anticipated Test match against England at Multan Cricket Stadium. Masood’s innings was the highlight of the day, as he anchored Pakistan’s recovery after an early setback.
Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat on a pitch promising runs. However, their decision was quickly tested when opener Saim Ayub fell for just four runs, nicking a delivery from Gus Atkinson to the wicketkeeper. This early dismissal seemed to threaten Pakistan’s start, but Masood, in partnership with Abdullah Shafique, stabilized the innings.
The duo put together a solid 114-run partnership, leading Pakistan to 122/1 by lunchtime. Shafique, who displayed great poise at the crease, was eventually dismissed for 102 off 184 balls, a knock laced with ten boundaries and two powerful sixes. His run-out at the hands of stand-in England captain Ollie Pope brought his impressive innings to an end.
Shan Masood continued to play fluently, surviving a contentious LBW decision off debutant Brydon Carse’s bowling, which was overturned after a successful review. Masood reached his half-century off just 43 balls, accelerating as the day progressed. He went on to score a magnificent 151 from 177 deliveries, hitting 13 boundaries and clearing the ropes twice before falling to Jack Leach at 62.3 overs.
Babar Azam, who was expected to convert his start into a significant score, fell short of his half-century, making 30 off 71 balls before being trapped LBW by Chris Woakes. His dismissal came after a steady partnership with Masood, which had further consolidated Pakistan’s position.
At stumps, Saud Shakeel was unbeaten on 35, while Naseem Shah had yet to score. Pakistan will resume their innings tomorrow, looking to build on their solid foundation.
England, led by Ollie Pope in the absence of regular captain Ben Stokes, found wickets hard to come by on the first day. Atkinson impressed with two wickets, while Woakes and Leach chipped in with one wicket apiece.
The match marks the first of a three-match series that forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25. England, who dominated their last tour of Pakistan with a 3-0 series victory in 2022, will be looking to replicate that success. However, with key players like James Anderson absent, the visitors face a stern test in Pakistan’s conditions.
As the action resumes on day two, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s remaining batsmen to see if they can further capitalize on the groundwork laid by Masood’s brilliant knock.