Pakistan and England faced off in the first Test at the Multan Cricket Stadium on October 7, a match that promised to be exciting from the outset. Winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bat first, a decision that seemed to pay off immediately as openers Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood put together a remarkable 253-run partnership for the second wicket.
The pitch was a flat one, allowing the batsmen to score freely, while the bowlers struggled to make an impact throughout the innings. Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen didn’t mince words regarding the conditions, describing the Multan pitch as a “graveyard” for bowlers.
His observation resonated with many who witnessed the match, as run-scoring became increasingly easy as the day progressed. Despite the bowlers’ best efforts, it was clear that the pitch was heavily favouring the batters, making it difficult to contain the flow of runs.
WATCH – KL Rahul Keeps Promise To Support Young Student’s Education
However, England managed to claw their way back into the contest by dismissing Shafique in the 60th over, followed shortly by Masood’s departure in the 63rd over. Despite their dismissals, the two had inflicted significant damage, scoring 102 and 151 runs, respectively. Pietersen expressed his surprise on social media, tweeting, “That wicket in Multan – bowlers GRAVEYARD!”
That wicket in Multan – bowlers GRAVEYARD!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 7, 2024
Pakistan entered this Test hoping to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing 2-0 series loss to Bangladesh. There had been speculation leading up to the match about the team’s request for a flat track to suit their batting-heavy lineup. Masood confirmed this at the toss, acknowledging the recent setbacks and their impact on team morale.
ALSO READ: Brendon McCullum Defends England’s Test Preparation Without James Anderson in Pakistan
“We are going to have a bat. We asked for a good cricket wicket. Both teams are stacked with good batting line-ups. We have been in winning positions and not won from there; it has caused some hurt among the team and the cricket fraternity. We want to get back to winning ways and hopefully this bunch of guys can do that,” he stated, setting the tone for the battle ahead.
