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The second Test match between Pakistan and England in Multan witnessed a devastating display of dominance by the English team, leaving Pakistan on the brink of another crushing defeat. Despite achieving a mammoth score of 556 runs in their first innings, Pakistan faced an uphill battle after England piled up an astounding 823/7d, establishing a colossal lead in the first innings. This remarkable achievement was largely attributed to the unparalleled partnership between Harry Brook and Joe Root, who together shattered a long-standing record in Test cricket.
Brook and Root's partnership of 454 runs for the fourth wicket surpassed all previous records, making it the highest such partnership in the history of Test cricket. Both batsmen achieved career-best scores, with Brook smashing 317 runs and Root amassing 262 runs. The Multan stadium pitch provided a conducive environment for batting, allowing the duo to feast on deliveries, but the performance was still a testament to their exceptional skill and composure.
While the English batsmen revelled in their success, the Pakistan bowlers were left to grapple with an unwanted record. For the first time in 20 years and only the second time in the 147-year history of Test cricket, six bowlers conceded more than 100 runs in a single innings. This unprecedented occurrence highlights the sheer dominance of the English batsmen and the lack of effective counter-strategies from the Pakistan bowlers. The bowlers who faced this misfortune included Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Aamer Jamal, Saim Ayub, Abrar Ali, and Salman Ali Agha.
Despite Pakistan's efforts to contain the English run flow, Root and Brook continued their relentless assault, adding a further 166 runs in just 29 overs on Day 4. Root, who previously held a best score of 254 against Pakistan in 2016, surpassed that record with a valiant 262 runs in this match. Brook, on the other hand, showcased his exceptional talent by smashing 20 boundaries and a six in his maiden Test double hundred, which he achieved off just 245 balls. Brook's previous best score was 186 runs, achieved against New Zealand in Wellington last year.
Pakistan did have a glimmer of hope in the first hour of Day 4 when Root, on 186 runs, mistimed a pull shot off Shah and Babar Azam was presented with a regulation catch at mid-wicket. However, Azam dropped the catch, allowing Root to escape and capitalise on his reprieve. Root subsequently went on to complete his sixth Test double-century, a remarkable feat that further showcased his resilience and determination. The absence of Abrar Ahmed, Pakistan's frontline spinner, due to a fever, further hampered their chances of containing England's run spree.
In conclusion, the Multan Test match has been a display of contrasting performances, with England dominating the proceedings. The record-breaking partnership between Brook and Root has catapulted England towards an inevitable victory, while the Pakistan bowlers have been left grappling with an unwanted record. The absence of Abrar Ahmed, a crucial player in Pakistan's bowling attack, has also been a significant contributing factor to their dismal performance. This match serves as a stark reminder of the immense challenge faced by Pakistan in their quest for a winning streak against England, a team that currently appears unstoppable.
Source: 2nd Time In 147 Years: Pakistan Hit New Low With Abysmal Run Leak vs England