Duckett Dominates as England Respond to Pakistan’s 366
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- October 16, 2024
- 4:58 pm
- 27
England’s second Test against Pakistan in Multan is heating up. Pakistan posted a respectable 366 in their first innings, thanks to Kamran Ghulam’s debut century and some solid contributions from the lower order. But England’s response has been quick and aggressive, led by Ben Duckett, who is making light work of Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack.
Ghulam’s Long-Awaited Century
Kamran Ghulam had waited years for his chance at the international level. And when it came, he made the most of it. Walking in at 19 for 2 after Pakistan’s top order crumbled early, Ghulam showed the patience and determination that has been the hallmark of his first-class career. “I had been waiting for my chance a long time, but I never gave up,” he said after his innings.
His 118-run knock not only steadied Pakistan but also highlighted his composure under pressure. “When I came to the wicket we’d lost two wickets. But I wanted to play with a positive mind,” he added. His partnership with Saim Ayub was critical, and together, they put on 149 runs to rebuild Pakistan’s innings.
England’s Bowling: Leach and Carse Strike Early
England’s bowlers had an early breakthrough when Brydon Carse dismissed Mohammad Rizwan, who managed just four runs before being caught behind. Carse and Jack Leach worked in tandem to pick apart Pakistan’s middle and lower order. Leach ended with four wickets, his best of the series so far, while Carse’s extra bounce caused problems for the batters.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for England. Aamer Jamal and Noman Ali frustrated the visitors with a stubborn ninth-wicket stand, adding 57 runs and pushing Pakistan’s total to a challenging 366. Despite Pakistan’s tail wagging, England would have been pleased with their effort in the field, considering the spin-friendly conditions.
Duckett Takes Charge: England’s Aggressive Reply
If Pakistan hoped their 366 would put pressure on England, Ben Duckett had other ideas. His aggressive approach to Pakistan’s spin attack set the tone for England’s reply. By tea, he had already raced to 53 off just 60 balls, using his signature sweep shots to dismantle Pakistan’s bowling.
The 96 runs England racked up in just 17 overs before the break highlighted the difference in approach between the two teams. While Pakistan had ground out their runs at a slower rate, Duckett and Zak Crawley went after the bowlers right from the start. Duckett’s half-century—his fifth in five matches against Pakistan—featured nine boundaries, and he looked in complete control.
Crawley’s Close Calls
While Duckett dominated, Crawley’s innings was more eventful. He had a few close shaves, including a near run-out after a miscommunication with Duckett. “I thought I was done for,” Crawley admitted later, but Pakistan’s Sajid Khan broke the stumps before the ball arrived, letting him off the hook.
Crawley was also fortunate when an LBW decision was overturned on review, but his luck eventually ran out. He was dismissed for 27 after edging a loose drive to slip, giving Pakistan a much-needed breakthrough.
What’s Next?
At 96 for 1, England trail by 270 runs but have plenty of time to close the gap. Duckett’s blistering start has given them the momentum, and with Ollie Pope joining him at the crease, England are well-positioned to continue their attack.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly. Their spin attack, which they had banked on to contain England, has yet to find a way to stop Duckett. With Jamal’s fitness in question after a potential hip injury, the hosts are short on pace options and will need their spinners to step up in the coming sessions.
The stage is set for an exciting finish to the second Test. Can England maintain their aggressive approach, or will Pakistan’s bowlers find a way to turn the tide?
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