Pakistan Stunned as England Dominate in Multan
Ah, the lads in green must be reeling! England wrapped up an unforgettable victory over Pakistan on day five of the first Test in Multan, winning by an innings and 47 runs. In a jaw-dropping result, Pakistan became the first team in Test cricket history to post over 500 runs in an innings and still lose by such a margin. Punters who backed England will be laughing all the way to the bookies!
A Record-Breaking Encounter Leaves Pakistan Stumped
Pakistan might’ve thought their first innings total of 556 would keep them safe, but England came back roaring, declaring at 823-7! Harry Brook led the charge with a smashing 317, and Joe Root wasn’t far behind with a steady 262.
Come day five, Pakistan found themselves at 152-6, trailing by 115. Salman Ali Agha (63) and Aamer Jamal (55*) dug in, but it was Jack Leach who turned the tide, taking 4-30. His heroics trapped Salman leg-before, sending the home side into a spiral.
Abrar’s Absence Hits Pakistan Hard
To make matters worse for Pakistan, they were down a man. Abrar Ahmed, their trusty spinner, missed the final day after being taken to hospital with a fever. With Pakistan already on the back foot, they needed all the firepower they could get.
England’s Bowlers Seize the Moment
Leach’s bowling was a sight to behold, and he wasn’t done yet. He snatched a brilliant catch off his own bowling to send Shaheen Afridi packing for 10. Then, with Naseem Shah trying to swing for the fences, Jamie Smith had him stumped, sealing Pakistan’s fate.
Punters in the Know Back England
Any savvy punters who had their money on England would’ve been celebrating from the moment that final wicket fell. After all, with Leach and the lads on fire, Pakistan never stood a chance of chasing down the deficit.
On to the Second Test: Can Pakistan Bounce Back?
With England 1-0 up in the series, the pressure’s on for Pakistan as the second Test kicks off on Tuesday, October 15. Will they find the magic to even the score? Tune in to Sky Sports from 5:30am and watch it all unfold.
Key Moments from the Match:
- First innings: Pakistan score 556, but England respond with a mammoth 823-7 declared.
- Day five drama: Pakistan collapse to 220 all out, handing England a historic innings win.
- Star of the show: Jack Leach’s 4-30 seals the deal for the tourists.
What’s Next?
The second Test promises more thrills as England look to wrap up the series. Will Pakistan manage to claw their way back, or will England continue their dominance? Either way, the punters will be keeping a close eye on this one!