Pakistan Faces Bowling Setback as Abrar Ahmed Misses Play Due to Fever

In a significant setback to the Pakistan cricket team, spinner Abrar Ahmed did not take the field with his teammates on the latest day of the Test match against England in Multan. Abrar, who has been a crucial part of the bowling lineup, is reportedly suffering from a fever, raising concerns over his availability for the remainder of England’s innings.

“Bowling options for Pakistan are limited today. Abrar Ahmed has been hospitalized. He’s suffering from a fever,” announced cricket commentator Ramiz Raja during the live broadcast, as reported by PakPassion.net.

England began their innings on day four with a strong position at 492-3, only 64 runs short of Pakistan’s first innings total. Pakistan’s bowlers faced a challenging day three, managing only two wickets, and failing to make significant inroads into the English batting lineup. As the Test match progressed, the need for early breakthroughs was imperative to shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favor.

Given Abrar’s absence, who bowled an extensive 31 overs on day three, Pakistan’s spin responsibilities have now fallen on Salman Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Saim Ayub. This trio, however, has only bowled a combined total of nine overs, each conceding more than five runs per over, proving costly in containing the English batsmen.

Pakistan’s seam attack tried to initiate a breakthrough in the morning session, and there was an early opportunity when a catch was dropped by Babar Azam. England’s Joe Root, attempting a pull shot in the fourth over, offered a chance at mid-wicket, which was not capitalized on, allowing Root to continue his innings.

The English batting pair of Joe Root and Harry Brook crossed the 500-run mark for the team early in the session, with their partnership exceeding 250 runs, further solidifying England’s command in the Test match.

As the match unfolds, Pakistan will need to reassess their strategies and manage their resources effectively to mount a challenge against a dominant England side, while fans and analysts keep an eye on player updates and match stats, keenly following each development.