In a thrilling finish to the Test series, Pakistan’s spin duo Sajid Khan and Noman Ali led a commanding win over England in the Rawalpindi Test, routing the visitors by nine wickets in just three days. The emphatic performance secured Pakistan a 2-1 series win, marking their first home Test series victory since February 2021 and their first series win against England at home since 2015.
Spin Triumph: Sajid and Noman’s Unstoppable Performance
Sajid Khan and Noman Ali shared an astounding 19 wickets, showcasing Pakistan’s renewed prowess in the spin department. Sajid Khan delivered an incredible 10-wicket haul, making him the first spinner and third bowler overall to achieve this milestone in Rawalpindi. Noman Ali’s relentless 6-42 and Sajid’s 4-69 dismantled England’s batting order, allowing Pakistan to seal the series in style.
A Swift Chase Seals Pakistan’s Victory
Chasing a mere 36-run target, Shan Masood’s side required only 19 balls to wrap up the match. After Jack Leach dismissed opener Saim Ayub for eight, Masood took charge, hitting four consecutive fours before finishing with a powerful six, securing a quick and decisive win. This victory marked Masood’s second successful series as Test captain, reinforcing Pakistan’s dominance on home turf.
England’s Struggles Against Spin Continue
Resuming day three with a score of 24-3, England struggled to cope with Pakistan’s spin attack, managing only 88 more runs before being bowled out for 112. Joe Root top-scored with a modest 33 but soon found himself out of partners as Noman and Sajid cut through the middle and lower order. Harry Brook (26) and Ben Stokes (3) fell early on day three, followed by Jamie Smith (3) and Root, leaving England with a slim second-innings lead.
Record-Breaking Performances and Standout Players
Sajid Khan’s series-best 19 wickets earned him the Player of the Series title, while Saud Shakeel, who scored a century in the first innings, was named Player of the Match. Shakeel’s 134 helped Pakistan post a first-innings total of 344, establishing a crucial lead that put pressure on England.
Pakistan’s Next Challenges
The win provides a significant morale boost for Pakistan ahead of upcoming series, highlighting the team’s depth in spin and resilience in high-stakes moments. For England, the series loss emphasizes the need for adaptability on subcontinent pitches where spin reigns supreme.
Scores in Brief
- England: 267 all out (68.2 overs); 112 all out (37.2 overs)
- Pakistan: 344 all out (96.4 overs); 37-1 (3.1 overs)
- Player of the Match: Saud Shakeel (Pakistan)
- Player of the Series: Sajid Khan (Pakistan)
