Rawalpindi, October 24, 2024: Pakistan ended the first day of the third Test at 73-3, after England was bowled out for 267, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
The visitors struck early, claiming three crucial wickets — Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, and Kamran Ghulam — all of whom fell before reaching the 20-run mark. Skipper Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel will look to stabilize Pakistan’s innings when they resume batting on Day 2 of the series decider.
Earlier in the day, England were bowled out for 267 in their first innings as Sajid Khan and Noman Ali tore through their batting lineup. Jamie Smith top-scored with 91, while Ben Duckett contributed 52, but most of England’s key batters struggled against Pakistan’s spinners on a turning pitch.
Sajid Khan delivered a standout performance, claiming six wickets, while Noman Ali took three, and Zahid Mehmood chipped in with one. England had made a solid start after electing to bat first, with Duckett and Zak Crawley sharing a 56-run opening stand before the collapse.
Pakistan’s spin attack dominated the session, with Sajid and Noman bowling in tandem. The duo, who had taken all 20 wickets in the previous Test in Multan, were once again in control, as Pakistan opted not to use a third bowler until well into the morning session. The spinners bowled 42 overs before captain Shan Masood made a change.
