Debutant Kamran Ghulam’s impressive century guided Pakistan to a total of 366 in their first innings on day two of the second Test against England in Multan on Wednesday. Ghulam top-scored with a brilliant 118, anchoring Pakistan’s innings, while Saim Ayub contributed 77.
England’s bowlers, particularly Jack Leach (4-114) and Brydon Carse (3-50), bowled well on a pitch offering little help to spinners. The visitors now look to build on their first innings lead as they lead the three-match series 1-0.
Resuming at 259-5 on the second day, Pakistan added 107 more runs before being bowled out. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, who began the day at 37 and five, respectively, were unable to make substantial contributions. Rizwan was dismissed for 41, caught behind off Carse, while Agha fell for 31 after edging a delivery from Matthew Potts.
Ghulam, 29, was the standout performer, showing great resilience as he replaced out-of-form Babar Azam at number four. He added crucial partnerships, including a 149-run stand with Saim Ayub for the third wicket, and a 65-run partnership with Rizwan. Ghulam reached his century in style, hitting a boundary off Joe Root, becoming the 12th Pakistani player to score a century on Test debut.
In the lower order, Aamir Jamal and Noman Ali contributed valuable runs before Pakistan was all out for 366. Jamal, who remained key to Pakistan’s hopes with the ball, showed resilience but struggled with his fitness, needing on-field treatment during his innings.
England’s bowlers took advantage of the new ball and the early morning conditions to stifle Pakistan’s momentum. Leach’s tight spin bowling and Carse’s pace were crucial in limiting Pakistan’s progress.
Pakistan’s spin-heavy bowling attack, with Aamir Jamal as the only specialist seamer, will now take on England, who will aim to build a lead in their first innings.
