England fought their way back into the third Test against Pakistan on Thursday, with Jamie Smith’s counter-attacking 89 and a strong bowling display keeping them in contention. By stumps, Pakistan had reached 73-3, trailing by 194 runs, as both sides vied for control at Rawalpindi. The contributions of Smith and spinners sparked England’s revival and kept the match evenly poised.
England’s Early Collapse
Captain Ben Stokes chose to bat first, but the decision backfired initially. England’s top-order struggled, slumping to 118-6 by lunch. Openers Ben Duckett (52) and Zak Crawley (29) put on a promising 56-run stand, but the middle-order folded under relentless pressure. It was Smith and the spinners who would later spark England’s revival.
Sajid Leads Pakistan’s Spin Attack
Pakistan’s spinners, led by Sajid Khan, made early inroads. Sajid claimed six wickets for 128 runs, with Noman Ali providing strong support by taking three wickets. They bowled 42 consecutive overs, taking advantage of a spin-friendly pitch. It was only the fourth time in Test history that two spinners had taken the new ball on the first morning, highlighting how crucial spin was in the contest.
Smith and Atkinson’s Fightback
Jamie Smith and Gus Atkinson launched a much-needed counter-attack, putting together a 105-run partnership that helped England reach a competitive 267. Smith’s aggressive knock, featuring six sixes and five boundaries, was pivotal as he guided the team out of a perilous position. Once again, Smith and spinners sparked England’s revival, putting pressure back on Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Top Order Stumbles
The hosts, like England, faced a top-order collapse, finishing the day at 73-3. Abdullah Shafique was trapped lbw by Shoaib Bashir, while Saim Ayub fell to Jack Leach for 19. Atkinson added to Pakistan’s troubles by bowling Kamran Ghulam, leaving the responsibility to Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel, both unbeaten on 16. The partnership between Smith and spinners continued to influence the match’s trajectory.
Spin Dominates on a Tricky Pitch
The pitch prepared by the Rawalpindi ground staff offered plenty of turn. Sajid Khan, continuing his fine form from the second Test, troubled England’s batsmen with his clever variations. “The pitch helped us for the first 25 overs, but then it became difficult to spin the ball,” Sajid said.
England’s Bowling Response
England’s decision to include a third specialist spinner, Rehan Ahmed, paid off as their spin attack exploited the conditions. Shoaib Bashir, Leach, and Atkinson shared the early wickets, with Bashir dismissing Shafique leg-before, Leach forcing Ayub into a catch, and Atkinson rattling Ghulam’s stumps. The roles of Smith and spinners remained crucial in England’s fightback.
Day Two Outlook
Pakistan must build a solid first-innings lead to stay competitive. “We need a good healthy lead, and Shan and Saud must bat for the first hour to keep wickets in hand,” Sajid said. Meanwhile, England will be aiming for quick wickets on Friday to push their advantage.
Score Summary
England (1st Innings): 267 all out
- Jamie Smith 89, Gus Atkinson 39
- Sajid Khan 6-128, Noman Ali 3-88
Pakistan (1st Innings): 73-3
- Shan Masood 16*, Saud Shakeel 16*
- Shoaib Bashir 1-29, Jack Leach 1-33, Gus Atkinson 1-2
The third Test remains in the balance, but it was undoubtedly Smith and spinners who sparked England’s revival, setting up a thrilling Day Two.