Wed Oct 09 02:25:23 UTC 2024: ## England Face Mountainous Task After Pakistan Dominate Day 2
**Rawalpindi, Pakistan:** Pakistan has taken complete control of the first Test against England, ending Day 2 with a commanding lead of 460 runs. England will need a monumental effort to salvage the match after being bowled out for 556 in the first innings and then struggling to reach 96/1 at stumps on Day 2.
Pakistan’s batting display was nothing short of spectacular, with Shan Masood leading the charge with a magnificent 151 runs and Salman Agha contributing a solid 104. Jack Leach was the pick of the English bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 160 runs.
The English batting woes continued into the second innings. Despite a solid start from Zak Crawley, who scored a quick-fire 64, England found themselves under pressure throughout the day. Joe Root (32*) remained unbeaten at the close of play, but England will need a monumental effort to avoid an embarrassing defeat.
Day 3, often dubbed the “Moving Day” in Test cricket, will be crucial for England’s survival. The pressure will be immense, and they will need to bat with a lot more resolve and determination if they are to stand any chance of making a comeback in the match.
The action resumes at 5 am GMT on October 9th.
First Piper 