Pakistan captain Babar Azam has scored his first half-century of the ongoing Test series against England, providing his side with an important innings during the third and final Test at Edgbaston.
Babar reached the milestone during Pakistan’s second innings on Friday (today). He came to the crease after Pakistan had lost two early wickets and England remained firmly in control of the match.
The half-century was particularly important for Babar after a difficult start to the series. He missed the opening Test because of a finger injury and returned for the second Test at Lord’s, where Pakistan suffered a 194 run defeat.
Babar also struggled in the first innings of the third Test. He managed only seven runs before Josh Tongue bowled him with a quick delivery. Pakistan was dismissed for just 133 as England’s fast bowlers dominated the batting lineup.
However, Pakistan showed much greater resistance in their second innings.
Shan Masood and young batter Azan Awais put together a valuable 125 run partnership. Awais scored 59 before Dan Lawrence provided England with an important breakthrough.
Masood then moved close to a century but fell for 95. Dan Lawrence produced an impressive one-handed catch off Gus Atkinson to end his innings.
Babar remained composed as wickets fell around him. He moved through the 40s before reaching his first fifty of the series, giving Pakistan further hope of reducing England’s advantage.
Pakistan facing series whitewash
England entered the third Test with an unassailable 2-0 lead after winning the opening two matches of the series.
The hosts strengthened their position at Edgbaston by scoring 453 in their first innings after dismissing Pakistan for 133. Harry Brook scored 75, Jamie Smith made 69 and Dan Lawrence contributed 65. Ollie Robinson also struck a half-century.
Pakistan therefore began their second innings facing a massive 320 run deficit.
However, Pakistan produced their strongest batting display of the match on day three. Masood, Awais and Babar led the resistance.
Babar reaching fifty also marked his first major individual batting contribution of this England Test series after an injury and challenging tour.