October 18, 2024: Pakistan ended their 11-match winless streak on home soil in Test cricket with a commanding 152-run victory over England in Multan, leveling the series at 1-1.
This marked Pakistan’s first Test win at home since February 2021, and it was a momentous occasion for the team, particularly for captain Shan Masood, who finally ended his six-match losing streak as Test captain.
The victory was largely attributed to Pakistan’s bold decision to go with a spin-heavy bowling lineup, which proved to be highly effective on the Multan pitch. Spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan dominated the match, taking all 20 of England’s wickets, putting Pakistan firmly in control. Noman Ali played a pivotal role, claiming critical wickets throughout the match, including dismantling England’s tail end on the final day.
The second Test saw Pakistan win the toss and choose to bat, with debutant Kamran Ghulam scoring a crucial century, pushing the team to a respectable total of 366 in their first innings. England responded with 291, thanks to Ben Duckett’s aggressive hundred, but fell short of matching Pakistan’s effort. Pakistan’s second innings saw them manage 221, setting England a target of 297 on a challenging, spin-friendly surface.
On Day 4, England began their chase needing 261 more runs with eight wickets in hand, but they were immediately on the back foot. Sajid Khan struck early, removing Ollie Pope, and Pakistan’s spinners kept the pressure on. England’s batters, notably Joe Root and Harry Brook, tried to counter the spin threat with a variety of sweep shots, but the tactic proved high-risk. Root was trapped in front of the stumps, while Brook and Ben Stokes fought valiantly to keep England in the hunt.
Stokes top-scored for England with 37, using a flurry of sweep shots, but his dismissal—stumped after being deceived by Noman—was a crucial turning point. Noman continued his stellar performance, cleaning up England’s lower order to secure the 152-run win for Pakistan.
This victory not only leveled the series but also gave Pakistan much-needed confidence as they prepare for the final Test in Rawalpindi. It was a standout performance for both Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who demonstrated Pakistan’s spin dominance on their home turf.
