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The second day of the first Test between Pakistan and England at the Multan Cricket Stadium was a thrilling spectacle for fans, packed with exciting moments and crucial plays. From jaw-dropping fielding displays to a commanding century, Day 2 offered a perfect blend of drama and dominance.
As the match unfolded, it became clear that both teams were determined to make their mark, creating an electric atmosphere that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Pakistan took the lead with a mammoth total in their first innings, while England found themselves battling to gain momentum in response.
Aamer Jamal’s stunning catch removes Ollie Pope
The highlight of the day came from Pakistan’s pace-bowling all-rounder, Aamer Jamal, who made a stunning return to Test cricket with an extraordinary one-handed catch to dismiss England skipper Ollie Pope. This remarkable moment occurred during Naseem Shah’s second over when Pope, looking to assert his authority, appeared to have nailed a pull shot off a well-executed back-of-a-length delivery.
However, Jamal, displaying incredible agility and reflexes, leapt to his right and grabbed the ball out of the air, leaving the crowd in awe and giving Naseem his first wicket of the match. The catch not only showcased Jamal’s athleticism but also shifted the momentum in favor of Pakistan, energizing his teammates and igniting celebrations among fans.
Here is the video:
UNBELIEVABLE CATCH 😲
Aamir Jamal pucks it out of thin air to send back the England captain 👌#PAKvENG | #TestAtHome pic.twitter.com/MY3vsto4St
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) October 8, 2024
Also READ: PAK vs ENG: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen takes a dig at the Multan pitch
Agha Salman’s ton powers Pakistan to a formidable total
Earlier in the day, Pakistan asserted their dominance with a massive total of 556, thanks to a brilliant century from Agha Salman. Remaining unbeaten on 104, Salman registered his third Test hundred, guiding Pakistan through a critical phase after resuming at 328/4. Despite losing key wickets, including Naseem Shah (33) and Mohammad Rizwan (nought), Pakistan’s lower order held firm, with Saud Shakeel contributing a solid 82 and Shaheen Shah Afridi adding a valuable 26 runs.
This depth in batting proved crucial, as the team continued to pile on the runs, putting pressure on the English bowlers. Jack Leach emerged as the pick of the bowlers for England, finishing with figures of 3/160. However, the visitors struggled to contain Pakistan’s batting firepower, allowing the hosts to build a formidable first-innings total.
