In a stunning performance, Pakistan’s spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan took the spotlight in Rawalpindi on Saturday, propelling Pakistan to a convincing nine-wicket victory over England in the third and final Test of the series. Their bowling efforts clinched a 2-1 series win, marking Pakistan’s first Test series triumph on home soil since 2021.
Ali and Khan’s Record-Breaking Impact
The combined spin force of 38-year-old Noman Ali and 31-year-old Sajid Khan was instrumental in dismantling England’s batting lineup. Together, they claimed an astounding 19 wickets in this match, with Ali finishing with six wickets for just 42 runs in England’s second innings. Sajid Khan also put up a strong fight, taking four wickets for 69 runs, sealing Pakistan’s path to a comprehensive victory. Their exceptional teamwork forced England to their lowest innings score in Pakistan, bundling them out for a mere 112 runs.
Ali and Khan had also made a massive impact in the previous Test, where they took 20 wickets between them, leveling the series 1-1 and setting up Pakistan’s victory in this third and deciding match. This performance has brought fresh hope to the Pakistani cricket team, showcasing the return of a solid spin-bowling partnership that proved too challenging for England’s batting order.
Pakistan’s First Home Test Series Win Since 2021
This victory is a significant milestone, marking Pakistan’s first home Test series win since 2021, when they defeated South Africa 2-0. For captain Shan Masood, this win is especially meaningful, as it represents his first Test series victory as captain. After previously facing tough losses, including a 0-3 defeat against Australia, Masood’s leadership is now credited with helping guide Pakistan to this series win. He sealed the match in style, scoring 23 not out and hitting a six to complete the 36-run target in just three days.
Avenging the 2022 Defeat
This victory also served as a redemption moment for Pakistan after their 0-3 loss to England in 2022, when the English side, led by Ben Stokes, had swept the series. Under Masood’s command, Pakistan turned the tables this time around. Despite England’s early dominance in the series, Pakistan’s spinners outshone England’s attempts, securing a decisive series win in the final two matches.
England’s Struggle Against Pakistan’s Spin
England began their second innings on Saturday morning, trailing by 24 runs with three wickets already down. Though Joe Root and Harry Brook tried to hold their ground, adding 11 more runs, England soon faced a continuous loss of wickets, leading to a collapse at 75 for six. This sudden drop left Pakistan’s spinners an open field to wrap up the innings at 112, giving Pakistan an easy target of just 36 runs.
The Way Forward
This victory brings renewed energy to Pakistan’s Test cricket journey, with Noman Ali and Sajid Khan emerging as valuable assets. Their role in this series has put Pakistan’s spin bowling on the map, presenting a challenge to teams accustomed to facing Pakistan’s pace attack.
