Pakistan’s batter Kamran Ghulam shone on his Test debut, smashing a gritty century on Day 1 of the second Test against England in Multan on Tuesday. Ghulam, who replaced former captain Babar Azam in the playing XI, impressed with a solid knock of 118 runs off 224 deliveries. His innings included 11 boundaries and one six, guiding Pakistan to 259-5 at stumps.
Ghulam, aged 29, was drafted into the team after Babar Azam’s recent poor form led to his exclusion from the starting lineup. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Ghulam stood firm against England’s bowling attack. After his debut century, Babar took to social media to congratulate him, posting on Instagram, “Well played Kamran.”
Pakistan, after winning the toss and electing to bat, faced early trouble. England’s spinner Jack Leach struck twice within the first hour, leaving Pakistan struggling at 19-2. Ghulam then led a crucial fightback. He built a 149-run partnership for the third wicket with Saim Ayub, who contributed a career-best 77. Ghulam further stabilized the innings by adding 65 runs with Mohammad Rizwan for the fifth wicket.
Century in Style
Ghulam brought up his century in style, hitting a boundary off spinner Joe Root. His innings spanned 280 minutes and made him the 12th Pakistani batter to score a century on Test debut. Ghulam’s resolute 323-minute knock ended shortly before stumps when he was bowled by spinner Shoaib Bashir.
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Speaking after the day’s play, Ghulam expressed his joy over the achievement. “It is delightful to score a hundred, especially as a replacement for Babar Azam, who has been a great player for Pakistan,” said Ghulam. Reflecting on a crucial moment during his innings, he admitted to being lucky when England’s Ben Duckett dropped a difficult chance off Leach when he was on 79.
At the close of play, Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 37, while Salman Agha held the fort with five runs. Ghulam’s century was a significant milestone after his long wait for a place in the national team. He had caught the selectors’ attention by scoring a national record 1,249 runs in Pakistan’s 2020 domestic season, but had not secured a spot in the team until now.
Ghulam’s Debut Performance
Ghulam’s debut performance gives hope to Pakistan’s middle order, which has struggled in recent series. His ability to hold off England’s aggressive bowling and stay composed under pressure marks him as a valuable asset for the team moving forward.
The day’s play ended evenly poised, with Pakistan still in a competitive position heading into Day 2. England’s bowlers will look to break through Pakistan’s lower order quickly, while the hosts aim to build on Ghulam’s century and push for a strong total.
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