Mon Oct 07 11:52:08 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Captain Masood Blazes Century, Leads Team to Dominant Position in Multan Test
**Multan, Pakistan -** Pakistan skipper Shan Masood smashed a blistering century, his first in the Test format, to lead his team to a dominant position in the first Test against England at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
Masood, under pressure to prove his leadership credentials after taking over from Babar Azam, responded with a 102-ball century, his fastest in the longest format of the game. His knock included an array of boundaries and propelled Pakistan to a commanding 286-3 at the end of the third session.
The captain’s innings were a welcome sight for Pakistan, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing series loss to Sri Lanka. He showcased his aggressive style, taking on the English pace attack with confidence, and forming a massive partnership with fellow opener Abdullah Shafique (102).
Shafique also played a pivotal role, contributing a century of his own and forging a 253-run stand for the second wicket with Masood. The duo effectively neutralized the English pace attack, led by Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson, as well as the spin duo of Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir.
Masood eventually fell to Leach for 151, ending his whirlwind innings but leaving Pakistan in a dominant position. The team will be aiming to build on this strong foundation and secure a crucial victory in the first Test.
First Piper 