England’s struggles in Pakistan continued as Agha Salman capitalised on a disputed catch, propelling Pakistan to a commanding 515 for eight by tea on the second day of the first Test in Multan. Despite a valiant effort from the tourists to push back after a dominant display from Pakistan on the opening day, a contentious moment shifted the momentum in the home team’s favour.
The pivotal incident occurred with Pakistan at 420 for six, when Chris Woakes believed he had taken a spectacular catch on the long-off boundary off Salman’s bat, who was then on just 15. However, the umpire referred the decision upstairs as replays failed to conclusively determine if Woakes had touched the boundary while catching the ball. The third umpire eventually ruled in Salman’s favour, awarding him a six, much to the dismay of Woakes.
Salman seized the opportunity to capitalize on his near miss, punishing a fatigued England attack to remain unbeaten on 79, including 10 boundaries and a maximum. England, who would have hoped to wrap up the innings quickly had the catch been confirmed, found themselves toiling under the punishing Pakistani sun with 138 overs bowled and energy levels waning.
Pakistan, resuming at 328 for four, were initially slowed down to 69 for two before lunch, thanks to debutant Brydon Carse claiming two crucial wickets. Naseem Shah fell after an entertaining 33 off 81 balls, while Aamer Jamal was dismissed lbw off a low-bouncing delivery. Spinners Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir chipped in with one wicket each, although they struggled to find the desired turn on a flat pitch.
Saud Shakeel’s gritty 83-run innings was finally curtailed by Bashir, who outfoxed the left-hander with a beauty that clipped off stump. As Salman’s innings gathered momentum and England’s weariness became evident, the match slipped away from the visitors’ grasp.
The match poised delicately heading into the final stages as Pakistan look to extend their dominance and England seek a breakthrough to swing the momentum back in their favour.