Shoaib Bashir Dismisses Saud Shakeel to Disrupt Pakistan’s Innings

England‘s off-spinner Shoaib Bashir made a significant breakthrough on the second day of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan by dismissing Saud Shakeel. Shakeel was caught out for 82 runs, which effectively ended his promising innings. Bashir’s delivery, turning sharply from leg to off, caught the edge of Shakeel’s bat and then hit the keeper Jamie Smith‘s pad before being expertly caught by Joe Root at slip.

This pivotal dismissal brought an end to a robust 57-run partnership between Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha, contributing to Pakistan’s substantial score. Shakeel had built on his form from the previous day, where he remained unbeaten at 35 at the close of play.

Earlier, Shakeel entered the match with Pakistan at 263 for 3 and played a key part in forming critical partnerships that propelled the team’s score past significant milestones. His 61-run stand with a fellow teammate pushed Pakistan over the 300 mark, and a subsequent 64-run partnership with the nightwatchman further solidified Pakistan’s position.

In Shakeel’s 13th Test appearance, he has accumulated 1,208 runs at a commendable average of 57.52, including seven fifties and three centuries according to ESPNCricinfo. Of these, 428 runs have been scored against England, showcasing his proficiency against this particular opponent.

The match in Multan saw Pakistan in a dominant position after the first day, reaching 328 for 4. Abdullah Shafique and another batsman both contributed centuries, scoring 102 and 151, respectively, to firmly establish Pakistan’s presence. Nonetheless, as the competition progresses, the flat pitch conditions could pose a challenge to maintaining their lead. Additionally, England’s strong batting lineup remains a formidable challenge.