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As Day 4 of the second Test unfolded at the Multan Cricket Stadium, Pakistan showcased their dominance over England, leading to a decisive victory. The home side executed a well-planned strategy that effectively restricted the English batters and applied relentless pressure throughout the match.
With their bowlers displaying exceptional skill and determination, Pakistan capitalized on their total. As England attempted to chase a challenging target of 297 runs, they found themselves struggling against a hostile bowling attack and an unresponsive pitch, ultimately unable to overcome the obstacles in their path.
Ben Stokes gets dismissed in a rare fashion
In a moment that caught many by surprise, England captain Ben Stokes fell victim to an unusual dismissal during the 27.2 over of England’s innings. Facing the left-arm spinner Noman Ali, Stokes initially seemed to have a plan, but he opted against the sweep or reverse-sweep, instead advancing down the track with intentions of slogging the delivery over midwicket.
Ali bowled a flighted ball that spun in sharply at a speed of 72.3 kph, slipping through the bat-pad gap and skidding low. Stokes, unable to make contact with the ball, lost his grip on the bat, which flew out of his hands. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, showcasing excellent awareness and reflexes, collected the ball cleanly and broke the stumps, leaving Stokes bewildered as he trudged back to the pavilion.
Here is the video:
The bat goes flying and Rizwan does the rest behind the stumps 🎯
Noman Ali outfoxes the England captain ☝️#PAKvENG | #TestAtHome pic.twitter.com/Q2a2GtfmsV
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) October 18, 2024
Also WATCH: PAK vs ENG – Sajid Khan rips apart England’s batting in Multan with a 7-wicket haul
Noman Ali triggers England’s batting Collapse
Ali’s bowling performance became the turning point for Pakistan as he triggered a rapid collapse in the English batting lineup. After Stokes’ departure, England’s score plummeted to 138/8 within just 32 overs, leaving them needing an uphill 159 runs to secure victory. Noman’s relentless accuracy and clever variations troubled the remaining batters, as he continued to pick up wickets with ease.
His remarkable figures of 6 wickets for 46 runs not only showcased his skill but also demonstrated his ability to seize control of the match at a critical juncture. With the English batting order in disarray and Pakistan closing in on a well-deserved victory, Ali finished with impressive figures of 8 wickets for just 46 runs in the second innings, ensuring his team sealed the match.
