Pakistan Strengthens Position on Day 2 Despite Middle-Order Setbacks
Resumption of Play: Saud Shakeel Anchors as Naseem Shah Falls Early
Pakistan resumed their innings on the second day of the match with Saud Shakeel at 35 runs and Naseem Shah yet to open his account. The team started the day at 328/4 with hopes of building on a solid foundation laid by centuries from Abdullah Shafiq and Shan Masood.
Naseem Shah’s Contribution and Early Dismissal
The first wicket of the day fell when Naseem Shah was dismissed after a commendable knock of 33 runs. His gritty innings added valuable runs, but his departure put the spotlight on the incoming batter, Mohammad Rizwan.
Mohammad Rizwan Falls for a Duck
Hopes of stability with Rizwan at the crease were short-lived as he was dismissed without scoring, caught out early and returning to the pavilion. This left Pakistan in a precarious position, with Salman Agha walking in to join Saud Shakeel.
Lunch Break: Pakistan at 397/6
Salman Agha Provides Support as Saud Shakeel Reaches 67
By the lunch interval, Pakistan had managed to stabilize somewhat, reaching 397/6. Despite the early losses, Saud Shakeel held firm at the crease, bringing his personal tally to 67 runs, while Salman Agha remained at the crease without scoring. Pakistan’s position had been strengthened primarily due to the stellar performances by Abdullah Shafiq and Shan Masood the previous day.
Post-Lunch Play: Saud Shakeel’s Crucial Knock Ends at 82
Saud Shakeel Dismissed After Fighting 82
After the break, Saud Shakeel continued his fine form and looked poised for a century. However, his innings came to an end at 82, when he was caught off the bowling of Shoaib Bashir. His dismissal brought Pakistan’s score to 450/7, but his partnership with Salman Agha had already provided the team with a commanding position.
Pakistan’s Stronghold Maintained Despite Setbacks
Despite losing key wickets on the second day, Pakistan remains in a strong position with a robust total on the board. With 450 runs and wickets still in hand, the team will aim to add to their advantage in the next session.