Noman Ali claimed eight wickets, leading Pakistan’s spinners to a decisive 152-run victory over England in the second Test in Multan on Friday, tying the three-match series 1-1.
England, chasing 297, were dismissed for 144 on the fourth day at the Multan Cricket Stadium. England’s captain, Ben Stokes, scored 37, but the main batters faltered against the spin.
Noman, the standout bowler for Pakistan, secured impressive figures of 8-46.
Together, Noman and Sajid Khan, who took seven wickets in the first innings and were named players of the match, claimed all 20 English wickets, showcasing exceptional spin bowling. This win ended Pakistan’s prolonged drought on home soil, with no Test victories since February 2021.
“Winning the first Test as captain feels incredibly special, especially after such tough times,” Shan Masood remarked. “Noman and Sajid, appearing in their debut matches, performed as if they were experienced campaigners.”
Masood added that their performance was so dominant that a third bowler was unnecessary.
Following the victory, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended their congratulations. Zardari highlighted the spinners’ crucial roles and hoped for continued stellar performances.
On X, Sharif celebrated the end of the home winless streak, posting, “We are back. Well done, Team Pakistan, for securing a historic win against England with outstanding displays by Sajid Khan and Noman Ali.”
As the series heads to Rawalpindi for the final Test on Thursday, Pakistan looks to maintain its momentum.
