England continued their strong batting display on Day 3 of the first Test against Pakistan, starting from their overnight score of 96/1. Zak Crawley and Joe Root took charge in the morning session, confidently dealing with Pakistan’s bowlers until Shaheen Afridi made a breakthrough, dismissing Crawley for 84, caught by Amir Jamal.
Ben Duckett, despite suffering a finger injury on Day 2, entered the crease confidently, partnering with the composed Joe Root. Duckett played aggressively, while Root exhibited his usual class, guiding England to a strong position at 232/2 by lunch. Duckett stood on 80 runs, with Root contributing a solid 72 runs.
Amir Jamal, Pakistan’s fast bowler, impressed with his reverse swing, creating several close chances, but he struggled to capitalize on them. His persistence finally paid off when he trapped Duckett lbw for 85 just after lunch, breaking a vital partnership. Harry Brook replaced Duckett and continued the aggressive approach, keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Pakistan’s bowlers, especially their lone specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed, found it hard to contain the English batsmen. Abrar conceded 123 runs in 24 overs, a significant factor in Pakistan’s difficulties. By tea, England had surged to 351/3, adding 119 runs in the session and losing just one wicket.
The second session was notable for Joe Root’s historic milestone, as he surpassed Sir Alastair Cook to become England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer. Root’s remarkable feat, achieved in just 147 matches, saw him pass Cook’s total of 12,472 runs. Root also secured his 35th Test century, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest Test batsmen of this era.
With England trailing Pakistan’s total by just 205 runs, they are in a commanding position. Pakistan will need breakthroughs in the final session of Day 3 to regain control of the match and halt England’s charge.
This record-breaking performance by Joe Root and England’s strong batting display is sure to be a key talking point as the Test continues. England vs Pakistan remains a highly competitive match, but Pakistan will need to step up in the remaining sessions to turn things around.