Pakistan Wins 2nd Test, Spinners Sajid Khan & Noman Ali Take All 20 Wickets
October 18, Multan: In a historic moment for Pakistan cricket, the Shan Masood-led team registered their first Test win at home in nearly four years, beating England by 152 runs and leveling the series 1-1. The match, which marked the end of Pakistan’s 11-match winless streak at home, saw spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali take all 20 wickets, joining an elite list of bowlers who have accomplished such a feat.
Spin Duo Dominates as Pakistan Won 2nd Test
After losing the opening Test by an innings and 47 runs, Pakistan needed a strong comeback, and their decision to trust a spin-heavy attack paid off handsomely. Noman Ali and Sajid Khan wreaked havoc on England’s batting order, exploiting the spin-friendly conditions in Multan. The dry, abrasive surface proved to be ideal for spin, helping Pakistan’s bowling duo to expose England’s frailties.
Noman Ali finished with an impressive 11 wickets, while Sajid Khan claimed 9 wickets, taking full advantage of the turning track. Their sharp bowling variations kept the English batters under constant pressure throughout the match.
England's Struggle as Pakistan Spin to Victory
On the final day, England required 261 runs with just eight wickets in hand. With the pitch deteriorating, the odds were stacked against them. The ball turned sharply from the rough, giving the Pakistan spinners complete control. Sajid Khan set the tone by dismissing Ollie Pope in the second over of the day, and the wickets kept falling as Noman Ali tightened his grip on the game.
Despite a brave effort from Ben Stokes (37 off 36) and some resistance from Brydon Carse (27 off 32), who hit three sixes, England couldn’t handle the relentless spin attack. Noman Ali eventually dismissed Stokes, thanks to a brilliant stumping by Mohammad Rizwan, turning the momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favor.
Pakistan Won 2nd Test and Leveled the Series
The spinners bowled England out for 144 in just 34 overs, sealing a 152-run victory for Pakistan. Skipper Shan Masood showed faith in his spinners, using only Sajid Khan and Noman Ali throughout the final innings. Their combined efforts ensured that Pakistan won 2nd Test and leveled the series 1-1.
WTC 2023-25 Standings After Pakistan Won 2nd Test
With this crucial win, Pakistan moved out of the bottom spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings, while England remained in fourth place. Pakistan will now look to carry this momentum into the third and final Test, which is set to begin on October 24 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Key Stats:
- Noman Ali: 11 wickets
- Sajid Khan: 9 wickets
- Pakistan won 2nd Test by 152 runs
Stay tuned for more updates from the Khelo Pakistan Digital Sports Network as the exciting Test series between Pakistan and England continues!
