Pakistan vs England: Shan Masood Hits Maiden Century as Pakistan Captain on Day 1 of Multan Test

Add as a preferred source on Google

Pakistan vs England: Shan Masood led from the front with a stunning maiden century as captain on Day 1 of the Multan Test, propelling Pakistan to a commanding position against England. Masood's 151, coupled with Abdullah Shafique's 102, laid a solid foundation for Pakistan.

The duo's monumental 253-run partnership for the second wicket showcased their dominance, though they both fell in quick succession after Tea. Resuming after Lunch at 233 for 1, Masood and Shafique had already put Pakistan in a commanding position.

The English bowlers struggled to create opportunities on a docile pitch, with Pakistan's batters dictating terms. Masood, in particular, was aggressive, frequently dispatching Jack Leach and Gus Atkinson for boundaries. The English seamers tried a short-ball approach to break the rhythm, but the Pakistani batters adapted seamlessly, especially Masood, who pulled confidently and even lofted Leach for a six.

Shafique, though slightly more circumspect than his partner, played a significant role in keeping the scoreboard ticking. Both batters mixed boundaries with smart running between the wickets, gradually wearing down the English bowlers, who lacked penetration in the unresponsive conditions. Masood reached his century, his first in four years, with a gentle nudge, while Shafique continued to accumulate runs patiently at the other end.

England's breakthrough came in the form of a misdirected pull shot by Shafique, who was dismissed by Atkinson for a well-compiled 102, just 16 balls before Masood fell. Gus Atkinson, on his return to the attack, finally managed to dislodge Shafique, while Jack Leach struck soon after, c&b Masood for 151.

Masood's dismissal ended a magnificent innings where he displayed superb technique and leadership, but it also opened the door for England to attempt a comeback.

At the time of writing, Pakistan were 298/3 in 73 overs in the final session with Babar Azam (20*) and Saud Shakeel (15*) on the crease.