Fri Oct 11 08:11:13 UTC 2024: ## England Suffer Costly Decision as Salman Powers Pakistan to 515/8 in Multan
Multan, Pakistan – England endured a frustrating day two in the first Test against Pakistan, watching Agha Salman capitalise on a controversial decision to steer the hosts towards a formidable 515/8.
The tourists fought valiantly after falling behind to centuries from Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood on day one, but a crucial moment in the afternoon proved costly. With Pakistan at 420/6 and Salman on 15, Chris Woakes appeared to take a stunning catch at long-off. However, the decision was referred to the third umpire, Chris Gaffaney, who ultimately ruled in favour of Salman after inconclusive replays. The decision, which left Woakes bewildered, allowed Salman to flourish, ultimately reaching 79 not out.
Prior to the controversial decision, England had made some inroads in the morning session, restricting Pakistan to 69/2 after resuming on 328/4. Brydon Carse opened his Test account with two wickets, including a dismissal of the dangerous Naseem Shah, who had frustrated the English bowlers with three sixes. Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir also claimed wickets, but Salman’s aggressive innings in the afternoon session changed the course of the day.
England will be hoping to salvage the match, but the loss of crucial overs and mounting fatigue in the Punjab heat will be factors they’ll need to overcome. Pakistan, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalise on their strong position and secure a comfortable victory in the first Test.
First Piper 