Duckett Confident Despite Pakistan’s Strong Position in Multan

England opener Ben Duckett remains optimistic about his team’s chances, suggesting Pakistan might “crumble” under pressure, even though the hosts ended day two of the second Test in a favorable position.

Duckett, whose 114 runs propelled England’s fast-paced reply to Pakistan’s 366, acknowledged the challenge ahead but emphasized his team’s belief. England reached 211-2 at one stage, but Pakistan’s off-spinner Sajid Khan turned the momentum, taking three quick wickets in a collapse that saw England slip to 239-6.

“Whatever the state of the game, we always believe we can win,” Duckett told Test Match Special. “The first session tomorrow is going to be huge. If we can bat for as long as possible and get close to their total, I think we’ll actually be favorites.”

Despite Pakistan’s strong position, Duckett remained confident, drawing on England’s past success. Two years ago, England swept Pakistan 3-0, and last week, they claimed a record-breaking victory in the series opener.

Duckett pointed out that Pakistan made significant changes for this second Test, including dropping star batter Babar Azam and reusing the pitch from the first match, which is now showing increasing wear.

“We know they can crumble, so the pressure is on them,” Duckett told Sky Sports. “We’re 1-0 up in the series, and we’ve beaten them 3-0 before. We know they’ll fight, but we believe we’re in the game.”

Pakistan, facing pressure themselves, brought in four new players, including Sajid Khan, who had been out of first-class cricket since January. Sajid’s impact was immediate, as he dismissed Joe Root, Duckett, and Harry Brook in just 10 deliveries, celebrating each wicket with his signature one-legged pose.

Duckett praised Sajid’s performance, calling him a “character” and noting his accurate, flat bowling. “He doesn’t get much bounce, but he bowls quick and doesn’t miss,” Duckett remarked.

Looking ahead, Duckett acknowledged the increasing difficulty of the pitch, which is expected to spin more as the match progresses. However, he remains optimistic. “If we can get close to Pakistan’s total and bowl better in the second innings, we’ll be in a strong position,” he said.

Duckett suggested that keeping Pakistan’s lead to around 200 or less would give England a solid chance to chase down the target. “If we bowl well, we’ll believe we’re still in this game,” he added.

As day three approaches, England faces a critical session that could determine their fate in this tightly contested Test match.