PAKISTAN: After Pakistan’s defeat to England in the second Test match on Monday in Multan, captain Babar Azam blamed the batters.
The hosts were eventually bowled out for 328 on Day 4, falling short of the required 355 runs to win the Test match and the series 2-0 to Ben Stokes and company.
Imam-ul-Haq’s dismissal shortly before Day 3’s end, when the Pakistani batsman edged Jack Leach to Joe Root, proved to be the game’s pivotal moment.
On Monday, despite a solid stand between Saud Shakeel and Mohammed Nawaz, the visitors could complete the task because Mark Wood removed both and ended up with four wickets.
Azam’s statement points finger at the batting department
According to Azam’s remarks during the post-game presentation, the batters in the first innings weren’t up to par.
The Pakistani captain acknowledged that his team made a comeback in their second innings but claimed that it wasn’t enough and that the batting unit didn’t perform well overall.
“In the second inning, we rallied with the bat and ball, but it was insufficient. Despite a couple strong partnerships, our performance as a batting unit ultimately fell short,” Azam stated.
“We were unsuccessful in the first innings. Despite a few gentle dismissals, we drastically failed to live up to expectations,” he continued.
The Pakistani skipper saved special admiration for Abrar Ahmed, a debutant who took 11 wickets throughout the game.
The team is now focused on the Karachi Test, according to Azam, and they will work hard to get a result.
“Abrar had a strong start and capitalised on the circumstances. We are looking forward to the Karachi Test and promise to give it our all,” Azam commented.
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