Pakistan has stormed back into the Test series with an impressive 152-run victory over England in Multan, leveling the three-match series 1-1 and breaking their frustrating 11-Test winless streak at home. It’s a win that will be celebrated for years, especially after a tough few months for the national team.
The Multan Test, which ended before lunch on the fourth day, saw England lose eight wickets in the morning session while chasing a target of 297. The English batting lineup crumbled, managing only 144 runs as Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the game. Leading the charge was Pakistan’s off-spinner Noman Ali, who delivered a career-best performance, claiming 8 wickets for just 46 runs in England's second innings. This stellar effort gave him match figures of 11-47, an incredible achievement in Test cricket.
Noman Ali's Spin Magic
Noman Ali was the star of the show, spinning England into trouble with his tight lines and sharp turn on a pitch that favored spin from day one. His 8-wicket haul in the second innings was crucial to Pakistan's success, especially since the pitch was becoming increasingly difficult to bat on. Ali took full advantage of these conditions, tearing through England’s middle and lower order to secure the win.
This was a historic performance in more ways than one. It was the first time Pakistan's spinners claimed all 20 wickets in a Test match. Noman Ali's bowling partner, Sajid Khan, also played his part by taking 9 wickets in the match, and it was just one shy of both bowlers taking 10-wicket hauls — a rare feat in cricket history.
A Comeback After a Crushing Defeat
This victory is even more significant because of the context. Just a week earlier, Pakistan had suffered a humiliating defeat in the same stadium, losing to England by an innings and 47 runs. That loss had put immense pressure on the team and captain Shan Masood, who was facing growing criticism.
However, Pakistan made bold changes for this Test, including the surprising decision to drop star batter Babar Azam and key fast bowler Shaheen Afridi. They went with a spin-heavy attack, playing seven spinners on a pitch that had already been used in the first Test. It was a gamble, but it paid off in a big way.
Captain Shan Masood was elated after the win, saying, “The first one is always special and it’s come after some hard and rough times.” His leadership was under scrutiny, but this victory will certainly ease the pressure and give the team a much-needed boost of confidence heading into the final Test.
England’s Struggle Against Spin
England, starting the day on 36-2, quickly found themselves in deep trouble. Ollie Pope, one of their key batters, fell early to a caught-and-bowled by Sajid Khan. After that, wickets kept tumbling, and even the usually reliable Ben Stokes couldn’t save the day. Stokes top-scored with 37 runs, but it wasn’t enough to put Pakistan under any pressure.
England coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged that his team was always going to face a tough challenge on this pitch, especially after losing the toss. "It was incredibly tough conditions… you always felt there was a ball with your name on it," he said, referring to how difficult it was to bat on the deteriorating surface.
Despite the loss, England didn’t seem too disappointed with Pakistan’s tactics. McCullum praised Pakistan for using home conditions to their advantage, saying that it's all part of the game.
Looking Ahead
With the series now tied 1-1, the stage is set for an exciting finale in Rawalpindi on October 24. Pakistan has regained its confidence, and the question now is whether they will recall star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi for the decider. England, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back and show they can adapt to the spin-friendly conditions in Pakistan.
This thrilling Test win not only leveled the series but also reignited the passion of Pakistani cricket fans. After enduring a long stretch without a home Test victory, this performance will be remembered as a turning point, a testament to the team's resilience and determination.
Pakistan is back, and cricket fans around the world are excited to see what happens next!
