England faces a daunting challenge in their run chase during the third evening of the second Test against Pakistan, as they find themselves on the brink of defeat.
Tasked with a record target of 297 for victory, England stumbled to 36-2, losing both openers, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, and putting Pakistan on track to level the series at 1-1.
The losses came during a disheartening 11 overs of batting at the end of a tough day in Multan. England’s chances of recovery were further hindered by critical dropped catches from Jamie Smith and Joe Root, which allowed Salman Agha to capitalize, scoring a crucial 63 after being reprieved on four and six.
Salman’s efforts were bolstered by a ninth-wicket partnership of 65 runs with Sajid Khan, who had earlier taken 7-111 to dismiss England for 291 in their first innings. Pakistan was eventually all out for 221, setting England a challenging target that would require them to chase down their joint-third highest total in an away Test and the highest by any visiting team in Pakistan.
Sajid was instrumental once again with the new ball, dismissing Duckett with a top edge and later seeing Crawley stumped off Noman Ali’s bowling.
