PAK vs. ENG 2024/25, PAK vs. ENG 1st test match report, October 7th – 11th, 2024

Lunch Pakistan 397 for 6 (Shakeel 67*, Salman 0*) vs England

Naseem, who resumed his role as nightwatchman, scored his highest score in any format of the game – 33 from 81 balls – and sustained England's persistent attack for more than 90 minutes. His efforts, which included three sixes during a stand of 64 alongside Shakeel, ensured there would be no quick route back into the game for the tourists after Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique set the tone on the first day had stated.

England were encouraged after the first day's struggles by taking three wickets in the final session, including that of Babar Azam with the second new ball. This ball was only five overs old when play resumed and Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson tried to test Naseem's technique around the stump.

Naseem was hit several times in the beginning but kept his composure. His first boundary came from a controlled steer well beyond the fence and when he was pulled into an edge by Atkinson, the lack of pace in the pitch meant he bounced well before the second slip.

As Shakeel approached his half-century and Naseem settled into his unfamiliar role, England relied on spin on the one hand and short-ball tactics on the other. Naseem was hit on the back of the helmet by Atkinson, but far from intimidating the night watchman, he merely encouraged him to take a more expansive approach as he popped out to lob Shoaib Bashir over his head with a long-on throw. Shakeel reached the 50 mark – his fifth against England in four Tests – with a sweep in the same over.

Emboldened, Naseem soon surpassed his previous Test best of 18 before twice dropping Jack Leach behind the ropes – the second an audacious inside-to-out hit over extra cover. The score crossed 50 and Naseem outdid his senior partner when he eventually succumbed to Carse's round-the-wicket attack and fell into the hands of leg slip.