Salman Agha became Pakistan’s third centurion as the team posted a commanding total of 556 in the first innings of the Multan Test against England. Salman, who remained unbeaten, followed strong contributions from Saud Shakeel (82), Shan Masood (151), and Abdullah Shafique (102) to help Pakistan surpass the 500-run mark.
England’s bowlers, led by Jack Leach (3-160), toiled in the heat but faced challenges, especially when opener Ben Duckett injured his thumb while taking a catch at slip. Duckett’s injury forced England to send him for assessment, with Ollie Pope stepping up the batting order.
Salman’s 104* came after Pakistan had ground their way to 515 for 8 by tea. He skillfully played England’s spinners, hitting Leach for two sixes and several boundaries to bring up his century off 108 balls. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi (85 for the ninth wicket) helped stretch Pakistan’s total, despite some late-inning drama, with Abrar Ahmed surviving several chances before being dismissed by Joe Root.
Earlier in the day, Naseem Shah frustrated England with a resilient knock of 33 from 81 balls, helping Saud Shakeel build a solid foundation. Despite some late wickets, Pakistan ended the innings in a strong position, with England facing an uphill task to respond.
