Misbah’s battling half-century was the biggest highlight for Pakistan on day three as England wrestled back the advantage but Shoaib Mohammad feels the visitors are still in control. PHOTO: REUTERS
The visitors managed to score exactly 400 in the first innings to take a lead of 103 in reply to England’s 297. Pakistan were in a commanding situation when the day began, resuming on 257-3; just 40 runs behind England’s score with seven wickets in hand and the experienced duo of Misbahul Haq and Younus Khan out in the middle.
Azhar realises 'dream' as Anderson apologises
Misbah and co would surely have been eyeing a lead of well over 150 when the day began but a combination of bad luck, poor shot selection and some tight bowling led to wickets falling at regular intervals.
Things then went from bad to worse for Pakistan as a solid opening stand between Alastair Cook and Alex Hales ate through the Pakistan innings.
But Shoaib still feels Pakistan have the edge in the game, with the 55-year-old urging Pakistan to ensure there are no more slip ups on the remaining two days.
“Pakistan are still slight favourites to win this Test and make history at Edgbaston,” Shoaib told The Express Tribune. “They have the perfect platform and Pakistan shouldn’t allow England back. They should put relentless pressure on the hosts.”
‘Sami’s knock more impressive than Azhar’s’
A 181-run stand between Sami Aslam and Azhar Ali was the highlight of the Pakistan innings, with the 20-year-old Sami being run out for 82, while Azhar scored a superb century.
Where Pakistan stand ahead of Edgbaston Test
Shoaib further added that Aslam’s innings was better than Azhar’s ton because he frustrated the hosts’ bowlers by leaving some very good deliveries while also being keen to take singles that ensured the bowlers were never on top.
He praised Azhar Ali’s resolve as well, stating that the batsman was being unjustly criticised before this Test. “It was a bit strange to see Azhar being criticised because he is a good Test batsman,” said Shoaib. “It was only a matter of time before he returned to form. However, I was more impressed by Aslam in that partnership because he had the better technique and game plan.”
Published in The Express Tribune, August 6th, 2016.
Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ