Kamran Ghulam, Pakistan’s rising star, made a remarkable impact in the second Test match at Multan, scoring a crucial 118 runs. His century came at a time when Pakistan was struggling, and it showcased several unique abilities that set him apart from other top batsmen like Babar Azam. Let’s explore the four key strengths that defined Kamran Ghulam’s innings.
Aggressive Start Under Pressure
When Kamran Ghulam came to the crease, Pakistan was in a difficult position with two early wickets down. Rather than adopting a cautious approach, Ghulam immediately took charge. His ability to attack the bowlers from the start is a stark contrast to the more conservative approach of Babar Azam, who typically takes time to settle. This aggressive mindset not only shifted the pressure off Pakistan but also sent a strong message to the bowlers. Ghulam’s fearless batting, especially in tricky situations, shows his potential as a match-winner.
Dominance Over Spin Bowlers
Another standout feature of Ghulam’s century was his handling of the spinners. The Multan pitch was dry and turning, with noticeable rough patches that made life difficult for most batsmen. England’s spinner Jack Leach had already dismissed two Pakistan players, but Ghulam was unfazed. He confidently attacked both Leach and Bashir, playing with excellent technique and not letting the spinners dominate. His ability to counter spin is one of his strengths, making him a key player in conditions where spinners thrive.
Mastering the Slog Sweep
One of the most exciting aspects of Kamran Ghulam’s innings was his use of the slog sweep. This is a difficult shot to execute, especially on a turning pitch, but Ghulam played it with ease and confidence. He even used the slog sweep to bring up his century, highlighting his fearless approach. The slog sweep is a shot that few top players, including Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, often use in Test cricket, but Ghulam has mastered it. This shot disrupted the spinners’ rhythm and kept them from settling into a consistent line and length.
Precision in the Third Man Region
Ghulam’s ability to play the ball late and score runs in the third man region was another key strength in his innings. England captain Ben Stokes tried to challenge him with deliveries outside the off-stump, but Ghulam consistently found gaps in the third man area. His understanding of his off-stump and his ability to handle deliveries just outside it allowed him to score freely without taking unnecessary risks. This skill, often overlooked, is essential in Test cricket and speaks to Ghulam’s solid technique and temperament.
