Controversial Catch and Joe Root’s Double Century Highlight England vs Pakistan Test

Joe Root demonstrated exceptional form by securing his sixth career double century in England‘s first Test series against Pakistan. The standout performance became a highlight in a fiercely contested match as he showcased his batting prowess on the field.

Meanwhile, the match took a controversial turn involving England’s capable fielder, Chris Woakes. Third umpire Chris Gaffaney ruled against Woakes in a contentious decision that denied him what could have been an extraordinary boundary catch. The incident occurred when Pakistan’s all-rounder, Salman Ali Agha, attempted a shot off Jack Leach‘s bowling.

Woakes, positioned at long-off, initially caught the ball before it entered the boundary zone, performing a juggling act as he stepped outside the rope. He managed to re-enter and complete the catch. However, upon further review, Gaffaney determined that Woakes’s trailing right foot was still grounded outside the boundary line when the ball was back in his hands, thereby awarding a six to Pakistan.

The decision left England’s players in disbelief as it contributed significantly to the game. The following ball saw Salman once again dispatch Leach, reiterating the pressure on England’s bowlers. Such instances are more frequently observed in white-ball cricket, where players often collaborate beyond the boundary, but they remain rare in Test cricket.

Salman Ali Agha played a pivotal role post-lunch, particularly after the successive dismissals of nightwatchman Naseem Shah and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. The loss of these wickets before the break posed a challenge, yet Pakistan capitalized on the situation immediately after lunch, surpassing the 400-run mark on an accommodating pitch.

England found solace in Brydon Carse, who achieved his maiden Test wicket by dismissing Naseem Shah. Meanwhile, Jack Leach managed to take Rizwan’s wicket, adding some momentum to England’s side as they navigated the demanding conditions.