Pakistan and England are locked in a thrilling contest during the second Test match in Multan. After Pakistan set a target of 297 runs, England finds themselves struggling, having lost two wickets and ending the day at 36 for 2. They still need 261 more runs to win the match.

The day started with England resuming their first innings at 239 for six. With Jamie Smith and Braden Carrs at the crease, they hoped to reduce the gap. However, Pakistan’s spinner Sajid Khan had other plans. Continuing his devastating form from the previous day, Sajid quickly took out Braden Carrs, completing his five-wicket haul.

Matthew Potts, the new batsman, managed to strike a boundary but soon fell victim to Sajid’s skillful spin, getting bowled for just six runs. England’s hopes rested on wicketkeeper Jimmy Smith, but he too couldn’t hold out for long. Attempting a big shot off Nouman Ali, he was caught by Saeem Ayub.

At the tail-end, Jack Leach showed resistance by scoring 25 runs and forming a useful 29-run partnership with Shoaib Bashir. However, England’s innings ended at 291, trailing Pakistan by 75 runs.

Pakistan’s star bowler Sajid Khan claimed seven wickets in the innings, while Nauman Ali took the remaining three.

In their second innings, Pakistan’s batsmen faced similar struggles against England’s spinners. Abdullah Shafiq got out cheaply, followed by captain Shaan Masood and Saeem Ayub, leaving Pakistan at 43 for 3 by lunch. Shoaib Bashir, England’s rising spinner, took all three wickets in the session.

Kamran Ghulam and Saud Shakeel tried to stabilize the innings with a 34-run stand, but Kamran was trapped LBW by Jack Leach. Saud continued to battle, but Mohammad Rizwan, after scoring 23, fell to Braden Kars.

Salman Ali Agha had a stroke of luck when two catches were dropped off his bat, allowing him to build a crucial 65-run partnership with Sajid Khan. Salman went on to score a vital 63 before getting caught while trying to pull a delivery from Ben Stokes. Sajid contributed 22 before Pakistan was bowled out for 221, setting England a target of 297.

England’s chase didn’t start well. They lost two quick wickets, ending the day at 36 for 2, with Jamie Smith and Braden Carrs already back in the pavilion. The match is now set for an exciting finish. England needs 261 more runs, but with Pakistan’s spin attack in top form, it won’t be easy. Can England pull off a remarkable chase, or will Pakistan secure a hard-fought victory?

Stay tuned as we watch this thrilling contest unfold!

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