England had a tough outing on Day 1 of the first Test against Pakistan, with Men in Green posting a strong 328/4, thanks to centuries from Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique. Despite a 3-0 win in their previous tour, England knew this series would be a challenging task. Pakistan, batting first on a flat pitch, capitalised on the opportunity, with Shafique (102 off 184) and Masood (151 off 177) forming a solid partnership of 253 runs for the second wickets.
Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique tower with brilliant centuries
England's Gus Atkinson (2/70) dismissed Saim Ayub (4 off 10) early, but Shafique and Masood countered with impressive performances. Masood survived a close lbw decision and Shafique narrowly escaped a run-out.
Both batsmen were eventually dismissed, with Shafique falling to Atkinson for 102 and Masood to Jack Leach for 151. England briefly had hopes of further wickets, but Babar Azam (30 off 71) and Saud Shakeel's partnership added 61 runs before Chris Woakes dismissed Babar.
England's tough outing on Day 1
Brendon McCullum's assessment of the challenges facing England in Pakistan proved accurate, as the team faced a tough opening day. The late arrival of bowling consultant James Anderson, despite his absence from the playing XI, was defended by McCullum.
The toss played a crucial role, with the pitch favoring batting. England's pace attack, limited overseas experience, and young spinners faced a tough test in these conditions.
Despite the challenges, England's effort was commendable, resulting in the dismissal of Babar Azam. The team can take solace in the possibility of a favorable pitch for batting in their second innings. However, the timing of their batting remains uncertain.
Pakistan's century-making duo shines against England
Under pressure to end a 10-match losing streak at home, Pakistan captain Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique delivered impressive centuries against England. Despite facing challenges and close calls, the duo capitalized on the opportunity to score runs. Masood, known for his admiration of England's attacking style, displayed his own aggression after Saim Ayub's dismissal. Shafique also played a crucial role, contributing to a valuable partnership.
Both batsmen reached significant milestones, with Shafique scoring his first Test hundred since July 2023 and Masood achieving his first in four years. Despite the challenges of cramp, they continued to bat aggressively until their dismissals.
Babar Azam's brief innings showed promise, but a lapse in judgment against Chris Woakes led to his dismissal. Saud Shakeel and nightwatchman Naseem Shah ended the day's play with a solid partnership.
England's pace bowling attack, which played a crucial role in their success two years ago, faced challenges in the opening Test against Pakistan. With limited overseas experience, bowlers like Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse struggled to find their rhythm.
The lack of swing and turn in the pitch made it difficult for all bowlers. Woakes started well but faced challenges later, while Carse's aggressive bowling strategy, including frequent bouncers, was overdone. Shoaib Bashir's economy rate was high, and he often lacked control.
Gus Atkinson and Jack Leach were the standout bowlers for England. Atkinson's delivery to dismiss Saim Ayub was a highlight, and his persistent bowling strategy helped to induce a loose drive from Abdullah Shafique.
Left-arm spinner Jack Leach, England's most economical bowler, outperformed Shoaib Bashir. Despite limited opportunities, Leach's experience in Pakistan proved valuable. As the light faded, Woakes was given the second new ball and successfully dismissed Babar Azam, securing his seventh Test wicket in Asia.