England are not completely out of the game yet. They still have a chance. Yes, they’re in a bit of a rough phase where things could quickly go from bad to worse, as it’s often easier to slip further than to make a comeback.
What England really need to focus on is the fact that two of their best batters from the past 16 to 18 months are at the crease together. That’s a big positive.
Both Harry Brook and Joe Root have previously batted together in the Multan Test, where they put up 400-odd runs, so England need to place their trust in these two.
These two batters can certainly build a partnership that could create some worrying signs for Shah and Masood. Let’s not forget, Pakistan aren’t unbeatable—they only won their first game in three years just last week.
While they’re high on confidence from that victory, they’re still limited in their bowling options. They have Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, and England’s strategy should be to wear these two bowlers down.
In the first innings, Jamie Smith managed to capitalize when they were tired, taking advantage of their weakened bowling.
So, England need to bat through the first session without losing any wickets. That’s essential for staying in this game. Early in the day, the bowlers are energized, their fielders are alert, and there will be some chatter around the bat.
But as the day progresses, it will get easier for England’s batters, especially since it’s easier to score with the old ball. England must remember that Pakistan are relying heavily on just two bowlers to take ten wickets.
In that case, they simply need to avoid giving them easy wickets. If those bowlers end up bowling 15 overs each in a single session, and England comes out on top with a solid 90 to 100 runs without losing a wicket, the pressure will shift to Pakistan and especially to their skipper, Shahan Masood.
England still have some decent batters to come, with Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, and Gus Atkinson yet to bat. So, it’s all about taking their chances carefully. If they want to stay alive in this game, they need to fight for it. It’s not an easy wicket; the odd ball will create doubts in the back of their minds.
But it’s all about trusting their skills and applying what they’ve learned through experience. If they have the talent, they need to bring everything into play to win this Test match.
