Pakistan's Optimistic Bowling Strategy Sets the Stage in Multan

Pakistan seamer Aamer Jamal shared his team's bowling strategy as they gear up for England's challenge in Multan. Maintaining a stump-to-stump approach on a slow wicket, Pakistan aims to leverage its positive mindset to capture crucial wickets in the ongoing Test series.

Pakistan seamer Aamer Jamal offered a glimpse into his squad's bowling tactics and mental preparation ahead of their continuation against England in Multan. 'I stay prepared for every delivery, expecting each to target me,' Jamal explained post-play.

Jamal emphasized their emphasis on hitting stump-to-stump, explaining that the slow, low wicket favors this tactic, increasing their wicket-taking opportunities. His outlook remains optimistic for the following session.

'We'll approach tomorrow with a positive mindset,' he concluded, demonstrating the team's resolve to implement their strategy effectively and seize pivotal wickets. Pakistan, starting at 328/4, amassed 556 in their first innings.

Vice-captain Saud Shakeel scored a composed 82, aided by night-watchman Naseem Shah's 30 in a 64-run partnership. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed for a 12-ball duck by Jack Leach. Pakistan reached 397/6 by lunch after 112 overs, surpassing the 400-mark soon after.

Shakeel's 89-ball fifty propelled them to 450 in 124.4 overs before falling for 82 to Shoaib Bashir. Agha Salman shone with a robust 104 off 119 balls, peppered with 10 boundaries and three sixes, sharing an 85-run stand with Shaheen Shah Afridi, boosting the total to 556. Salman remained unbeaten.

England spinner Jack Leach bagged 3 for 160 in 40 overs. Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse claimed two each, with Chris Woakes, Joe Root, and Shoaib Bashir picking one apiece. England faced early pressure as captain Ollie Pope fell for nought to Naseem Shah, collapsing to 4/1 in 1.2 overs but regained composure, reaching fifty in 10.4 overs.

Zak Crawley delivered a stylish 55-ball fifty loaded with 10 boundaries, partnering elegantly with Joe Root (32). Both left unbeaten, England ended at 96/1, resuming day three from this stance.

(With inputs from agencies.)