On Day 1 of the third Test between Pakistan and England in Rawalpindi, Pakistan’s spin attack, led by Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, proved too much for England’s celebrated “Bazball” approach. The aggressive batting tactics that England had relied on so heavily in recent times faltered against Pakistan’s sharp spin bowling, leading to a light-hearted yet pointed jibe from Pakistan’s wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.
England won the toss and opted to bat, with openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley giving the visitors a solid start. The duo put together a 54-run partnership, with Duckett scoring a brisk 52. However, once the spinners were introduced, the momentum shifted dramatically in Pakistan’s favour.
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Noman Ali drew first blood by dismissing the well-set Crawley for 29, sparking a collapse in England’s batting lineup. Sajid and Noman capitalized on the spin-friendly conditions, and within no time, England found themselves in deep trouble at 98/5. It was during this stretch of dominance that Rizwan, ever cheeky behind the stumps, quipped, “No more Bazball,” as Harry Brook took guard, reflecting Pakistan’s control over the proceedings.
Rizwan on stump mic “No more Bazball” 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/FvCSlOctPz
— Talha🌹🍉 (@tal_h_a) October 24, 2024
England’s middle order, featuring Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (5), and Brook (5), crumbled under the pressure, and by lunch, England was tottering at 110/5. Skipper Ben Stokes could only manage 12 before falling to Pakistan’s relentless bowling.
The only resistance came from Jamie Smith, who counterattacked with a quick-fire 89 off 119 balls, including six sixes and five fours. He found some support in Gus Atkinson, who chipped in with 39 as the pair added 105 crucial runs for the seventh wicket, pushing England to a respectable total.
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Pakistan eventually bowled England out for 267, with Sajid Khan leading the charge, taking 6/128. Noman Ali contributed with 3/88, while Zahid Mahmood claimed one wicket to complete an impressive bowling performance.
