Pakistan delivered a comprehensive 152-run victory over England in the second Test match of the series at Multan, leveling the series 1-1. Spinner Noman Ali was the star of the show, taking an outstanding 8 wickets in the second innings, finishing with figures of 8 for 46, and wrapping up England’s chase for 297 at just 144 runs.
England's batting collapsed under the pressure of Noman Ali's brilliance, as they were bowled out in just 33.3 overs. Noman’s exceptional performance saw him claim a match total of 11 wickets, making him the pivotal figure in Pakistan's victory. His partner, Sajid Khan, contributed with two crucial wickets in the second innings, though his figures of 2 for 93 paled in comparison to Noman’s heroics.
Pakistan set England a challenging target of 297 after scoring 366 in the first innings, followed by 221 in their second. England, who managed 291 in their first innings, crumbled in their chase, with only a few batsmen providing any resistance. Joe Root scored 38 runs, but none of the other batsmen could withstand Pakistan’s spin attack, which dominated proceedings.
The final wicket came when Shoaib Bashir, England’s last man, was caught by Abdullah Shafique off Noman Ali’s bowling for a golden duck, sealing Pakistan’s victory.
With this win, Pakistan has leveled the series, setting up an exciting decider in the final Test. Noman Ali's performance will be remembered as one of the finest bowling displays, and the team will be looking to carry this momentum into the series finale.
(T:297) 291 & 144
Sajid Khan struck twice, removing Ollie Pope for 22 off 38 balls with a sharp caught-and-bowled dismissal.
Earlier, Pope had shown some resistance alongside Joe Root, but his departure has left England in trouble. Sajid's fiery spell now reads 6.2-0-27-2, while Noman Ali chipped in with the key wicket of opener Ben Duckett, leaving England reeling at 37/3.
England, who started the day needing 260 runs for victory, now face a daunting task as Pakistan’s spinners find considerable turn and bounce on the fourth-day pitch. Joe Root remains at the crease with 12 runs from 26 balls, but with 260 more runs required and seven wickets in hand, England will need a special effort to avoid defeat.
With over 88 overs remaining in the day, the match hangs in the balance, but Pakistan hold the upper hand as their bowlers continue to apply pressure.
