Multan-(Special Correspondent)-England has achieved a remarkable feat in the first Test match against Pakistan, posting the highest-ever innings total against the host team. The visitors accumulated an impressive 823 runs for 7 wickets, declaring their innings on the fourth day in Multan. This monumental score surpasses the previous record held by West Indies, who scored 790-3 against Pakistan in 1958.
Harry Brook and Joe Root led the charge, crafting monumental innings that have put England in a commanding position. Root remains unbeaten on 262, playing a masterclass innings that includes 17 boundaries, while Brook scored 317, lacing 20 boundaries and a six. Their unbeaten 409-run partnership showcased impeccable form and left Pakistan’s bowling attack struggling to find breakthroughs.
Pakistan’s misfortunes were compounded by dropped chances, including a critical one by Babar Azam off Root. The absence of key spinner Abrar Ahmed, who is down with a fever, severely weakened Pakistan’s bowling attack. Agha Salman and Saim Ayub toiled hard but went wicketless in the morning session, as England racked up 166 runs without losing a wicket.
This achievement marks the second time in cricket history that any team has scored more than 700 runs in a Test match against Pakistan. England becomes the first team in the 21st century to score 800 runs, and only the fourth time in cricket Test history. England twice scored above 800 earlier, making 849 against the West Indies in 1930 and 903 against Australia in 1938.
Root also eclipsed Alastair Cook as England’s top Test run-scorer and became the first batsman from his country to make 20,000 international runs. He picked up from where he left off on Wednesday and reached his sixth double century with a single before celebrating by kissing the badge on his helmet. Root went past Cook again with only Wally Hammond ahead of him in England’s list with seven double tons.
Pakistan now trails by 262 runs with only five wickets remaining in their second innings. Currently, Pakistan stands at 556 & 5/1, with Shan Masood and Saim Ayub at the crease. Masood’s brief innings has shown promise with a strike rate of 166.66, but the pressure is on as they attempt to chase down an imposing target. Chris Woakes made an early breakthrough for England, taking 1 wicket for just 5 runs in his first over.
As the match progresses, cricket fans are left on the edge of their seats, wondering if Pakistan can turn the tide against a dominant England side. England aims to pile on more runs and extend their lead, potentially targeting a 300-run advantage. The prospect of both Root and Brook chasing triple centuries looms large, further solidifying England’s chances of setting up a victory in this high-scoring Test.
Pakistan’s batting lineup must consolidate quickly, especially with the wicket of Abdullah Shafique falling early on for a duck. With three reviews remaining for both teams, Pakistan must capitalize on every opportunity to mount a significant comeback. The pressure is on Pakistan to salvage the match and prevent England from taking a commanding lead in the series.
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