[Watch] Shan Masood seals the game and series with a six as Pakistan wins by 9 wickets in PAK vs ENG 3rd Test 2024
Pakistan captain Shan Masood launched a six to secure victory for his team on Day 3 of the final and third Test against England on Saturday, October 26. The match was held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Chasing a modest target of 36 runs, Shoaib Bashir bowled a full delivery outside off on the first ball of the fourth over. Masood stepped down the wicket and launched it over long-off for six, leading the hosts to a nine-wicket victory and clinching the series 2-1. It was Pakistan’s first Test series win at home since 2021.
Here’s a video of the winning moment:
Earlier in the match, England opted to bat first and scored 267 runs, led by a noteworthy 89 from wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. Sajid Khan was the standout bowler for the hosts, claiming six wickets.
In response, Pakistan scored 344 runs, thanks to a brilliant century from Saud Shakeel, who made 134 runs.
In England's second innings, Pakistan’s spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali dominated. Noman took six wickets, while Sajid claimed four, as England were bowled out for just 112, setting a target of only 36 runs.
The Pakistani team made quick work of the chase, winning by nine wickets within four overs. Shakeel's exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
“If your plans are clear then it becomes easier” - Saud Shakeel reflects on his match-winning hundred
The Pakistani vice-captain Saud Shakeel delivered an impressive performance, recording his fourth Test century. He scored 134 runs off 223 balls, featuring five boundaries, which helped Pakistan gain a crucial first-innings lead of 77 runs.
Reflecting on his innings during the post-match presentation, he said via Cricbuzz:
"The pitch and situation was a bit difficult but if your plans are clear then it becomes easier, you have to back yourself. I enjoy the responsibility as vice captain. I have more fun playing against fast bowlers but as long as the runs are coming, that’s what matters. The way Noman and Sajid batted was dominating, they get a lot of credit. They dominated more than me."
Pakistan will next face Australia in an away white-ball series, beginning on November 4 in Melbourne.