On day three of the first Test between Pakistan and England in Multan, England reached 154/2 at the end of 30 overs, still trailing by 402 runs after Pakistan's commanding first innings total of 556.
Pakistan: (31 ov) 159/2
Ben Duckett and Joe Root were at the crease, with Duckett scoring a brisk 34 off 28 balls and Root providing stability with 41 off 66 deliveries. England's run rate of 5.13 reflected their intent to score quickly but maintain control. Earlier, England lost Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope, with Crawley falling to Naseem Shah after contributing 51 runs to England's total.
Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed has bowled 9 overs so far but has yet to pick up a wicket, while Naseem Shah has taken 1 for 30 in his 8 overs. Duckett played some aggressive shots, hitting three boundaries off Abrar in one over, showcasing England's attacking approach, but also risking quick wickets.
With Pakistan firmly in control after their massive first-innings score, the pressure remains on England to put up a big total to stay competitive in this Test match. The match is finely poised, but England will need to dig deep to avoid a collapse against Pakistan's bowling attack.
