Pakistan demolish England to win first home series in three years

RAWALPINDI: Noman Ali (6-42) and Sajid Khan (4-69) ran through England’s second innings in a sensational Saturday morning session to earn a remarkable Test and series win for Pakistan at the Pindi Stadium.

England were bowled out for just 112, their lowest total ever in Pakistan, to leave hosts needing 36 to win which they achieved in just 3.1 overs, losing Saim Ayub (8 not out) in the process. Shan Masood hit 23 off just six balls to complete the victory. It was Pakistan’s first series win at home since they defeated South Africa in 2021. The victory was all the more creditable as Pakistan fought back from a 0-1 deficit to win the next two Tests and series 2-1.

Noman and Sajid ran riot, bowling in tandem to run through England’s batting line-up in just 28.2 overs early Saturday morning. England’s batsmen could not cope with the variety of spin unleashed by both the bowlers, giving the host country the rare delight of winning the three-match series 2-1.

Nothing went well for England on the third day morning. Once Harry Brook’s (26) and Joe Root’s (33) 46-run resistance for the fourth wicket was over, the tourists were left to struggle to survive till lunch. Brook and Root both were picked by Rizwan behind the wicket off Noman. Ben Stokes’ bizarre LBW dismissal left England reeling at 70 for 5 and when first innings hero Jamie Smith (3) was cleaned up by Sajid, even Joe Root standing at the other end lost hopes of any revival. When Root was caught behind by Rizwan off Noman, England almost conceded defeat. Gus Atkison (10), Jack Leach (10), and Rehan Ahmad (7) were just seen waiting for their departure with every delivery.

Noman returned with match figures of nine for 130, with Sajid picking up 10 for 197. Both shared 39 England wickets during the last two Test matches, a record.

Saud Shakil was declared Man of the Match for his superb hundred under trying conditions with Sajid Khan scooping up the Man of the Series award.

“We are thankful to Almighty Allah that our pair has helped Pakistan win the series following three years of wait,” Noman Ali said, during a media talk. “The best thing about this victory was that we lost the toss and went on to win the series. The initiative was clearly with the tourists, yet we played some of the best cricket in the recent past to win the series against a powerful side.”

Sajid was excited to have made people follow Test cricket. “We are delighted to bring back fans to Test cricket. I think every spinner has served in his capacity. It was our turn and we are delighted to see our team winning the series.”

Sajid said he never put pressure on his opponents through his looks, rather it was natural. “I only believe in my performance and not looks. My looks are natural and have nothing to do with my spin bowling prowess,” Sajid said.