The highly anticipated series between Pakistan and England kicked off with a thrilling start in Multan, where Shan Masood century vs England set the tone for a dominant first day for the hosts. Pakistan’s skipper led from the front with an assertive 151, supported by Abdullah Shafique, who also scored a well-fought century.
Together, the pair built a massive partnership that left England’s bowlers toiling under the scorching heat. This partnership not only helped Pakistan to a solid 328/4 but also put immense pressure on an England attack that looked out of sorts in their first Test on Pakistani soil.
Pakistan’s Strong Start with Shan Masood century vs England
After winning the toss, Shan Masood’s decision to bat first immediately paid dividends. Despite early concerns about a green surface that could have favored England’s seamers, Masood stood tall, dismissing any doubts. His century vs England was not only a personal triumph but also a key turning point in shifting momentum toward Pakistan.
The opening wicket fell early, with Saim Ayub dismissed in the fourth over, but Masood quickly settled in. His shot selection and calm demeanor indicated a player determined to lead his side from the front.
England, featuring an inexperienced bowling attack led by Chris Woakes and debutant Brydon Carse, struggled to find consistent breakthroughs. By lunch, Pakistan had already built a strong foundation.
The Masood-Shafique Partnership: A Game-Changer
Pakistan’s fortunes on Day 1 were firmly anchored by the second-wicket stand between Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique. The duo added a staggering 253 runs, with Shafique matching his captain’s effort after a rough patch of form. The partnership was a showcase of resilience, patience, and excellent shot-making, particularly from Masood, whose century came off 102 balls.
The intense heat seemed to have little effect on the two batters, even though England cycled through six different bowlers trying to break the stand. Masood’s intent was clear from the start—his aggressive approach, particularly against spin, put pressure on England’s attack, and his boundary-laden innings left them reeling. He dispatched Shoaib Bashir’s deliveries with ease, signaling Pakistan’s intent to control the game.
Late Wickets Lift England but Pakistan Holds the Advantage
Although Pakistan was cruising at 261 for 1, England found some respite after tea. Gus Atkinson, who had toiled hard with little reward, finally found success, and Jack Leach chipped in with two crucial wickets, including the dismissal of Shan Masood for 151. Masood’s exit was a big blow to Pakistan, but the damage had already been done.
England also managed to remove Babar Azam, who has been struggling for form, getting him out late in the day. This gave England some hope, but by then, Pakistan had already secured a formidable position, thanks to Masood and Shafique’s centuries.
England’s Struggles in the Heat
The day wasn’t easy for England, particularly with their bowling unit lacking experience in such conditions. Chris Woakes, the leader of the attack, found it difficult to extract much from the flat pitch, while Brydon Carse, despite bowling at 90mph, had to adapt to the slower surface.
The grueling heat, with temperatures hovering in the high 30s, didn’t help either. As fatigue set in, England’s bowlers struggled to maintain consistency, allowing Pakistan’s batters to take control.
The dismissal of Ayub in the fourth over seemed like the start of something promising for England, but the Masood-Shafique stand soon put them on the back foot. Even with multiple field changes and bowling combinations, England failed to crack the pair until late in the day.
What’s Next for England?
Going into Day 2, England needs to regroup quickly. Their bowlers must strike early to prevent Pakistan from piling on a mammoth total. For Pakistan, the focus will be on continuing to build on this foundation, with Saud Shakeel and the middle order looking to take advantage of the tiring English bowlers.
Both teams have much to play for in this opening Test, and while Pakistan’s top order has already done the hard work, the game is far from over.
Conclusion: Pakistan in the Driver’s Seat
At the end of Day 1, Pakistan is clearly in control, thanks to Shan Masood’s century vs England and Abdullah Shafique’s support. Their incredible 253-run partnership has given the hosts a strong platform to press on for a big first-innings total. Despite a few late wickets, England’s bowlers will need to dig deep if they are to claw their way back into this match.
With more action to come, the fans can expect an exciting Test ahead, where the balance of power could still shift. However, for now, Pakistan holds the upper hand, and it will be up to their bowlers to follow the excellent work done by their batters.
More Insights on the England Tour of Pakistan
For the latest updates on the England Tour of Pakistan 2024-25, including fixtures and results, visit the England Tour of Pakistan Fixtures and Results page.
Check out the full squad details for both teams here.
For complete coverage of the ongoing World Test Championship series between Pakistan and England, visit the official ICC page.
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