England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first on an unimpressive track, with nothing for bowlers, England rode on four centuries -- from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks -- to post 657 all-out in 101 overs.

In reply, Pakistan made 579 all-out with centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam. With a 78-run lead, England batters once again impressed and went all-out in their approach to post 264-7 in 35.5 overs, at over seven runs per over, to set up a challenging 343-run target. On Day 5, Pakistan were 259-5 but got dismissed for 268. Post the Test match, many have hailed Ben Stokes &amp; Co. for their bazball method which lit up the Test, played on a dead wicket.

Nonetheless, ex-English cricketer David Lloyd feels that England's approach isn't new.&nbsp;He recalled the great teams such as West Indies and Australia which were aggressive and never played for a draw. Lloyd further&nbsp; mentioned that only India can play a similar brand of cricket in whites, despite their batters being obsessed with numbers,&nbsp;due to Virat Kohli. "It is not totally new, of course. The Australian team of the 90s were very positive and the great West Indian sides were full of exhilarating stroke-makers. I reckon a team capable of this style now is India. They have all the tools. There has been a suspicion that Indian batters are stats driven but Virat Kohli is one who could drive this," wrote Lloyd in the Daily Mail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-others-come-to-sell-pickles-ex-pak-spinner-takes-a-dig-at-shaheen-less-pace-attack-after-1st-test-loss-540576">'Did others come to sell pickles?': Ex-Pak spinner takes a dig at Shaheen-less pace attack after 1st Test loss</a>

It is to be noted that Kohli remains India's greatest Test captain ever. He led India from 2015 to 2022 and infused a competitive and attacking mindset where the team didn't only rely on spinners but formed a lethal pace-bowling attack and went for results rather than settling for draws. Under Kohli, India beat Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, had an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 series (which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with Jasprit Bumrah leading in the final match), were highly competitive versus South Africa in their own den in 2018 and 2022 tours and remained a dominant force at home.&nbsp;

India also played the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final under Kohli's leadership and remained No. 1 ranked side in the format for a long time. At present, Rohit is India's full-time captain after Kohli's resignation early this year.

England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05).

England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first on an unimpressive track, with nothing for bowlers, England rode on four centuries -- from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks -- to post 657 all-out in 101 overs. In reply, Pakistan made 579 all-out with centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam. With a 78-run lead, England batters once again impressed and went all-out in their approach to post 264-7 in 35.5 overs, at over seven runs per over, to set up a challenging 343-run target. On Day 5, Pakistan were 259-5 but got dismissed for 268. Post the Test match, many have hailed Ben Stokes & Co. for their bazball method which lit up the Test, played on a dead wicket. Nonetheless, ex-English cricketer David Lloyd feels that England's approach isn't new. He recalled the great teams such as West Indies and Australia which were aggressive and never played for a draw. Lloyd further mentioned that only India can play a similar brand of cricket in whites, despite their batters being obsessed with numbers, due to Virat Kohli. "It is not totally new, of course. The Australian team of the 90s were very positive and the great West Indian sides were full of exhilarating stroke-makers. I reckon a team capable of this style now is India. They have all the tools. There has been a suspicion that Indian batters are stats driven but Virat Kohli is one who could drive this," wrote Lloyd in the Daily Mail. Also read: 'Did others come to sell pickles?': Ex-Pak spinner takes a dig at Shaheen-less pace attack after 1st Test loss It is to be noted that Kohli remains India's greatest Test captain ever. He led India from 2015 to 2022 and infused a competitive and attacking mindset where the team didn't only rely on spinners but formed a lethal pace-bowling attack and went for results rather than settling for draws. Under Kohli, India beat Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, had an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 series (which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with Jasprit Bumrah leading in the final match), were highly competitive versus South Africa in their own den in 2018 and 2022 tours and remained a dominant force at home. India also played the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final under Kohli's leadership and remained No. 1 ranked side in the format for a long time. At present, Rohit is India's full-time captain after Kohli's resignation early this year.

'Virat Kohli is one who could drive this': David Lloyd claims only India can follow England's bazball method

Pakistan and England met in the first match of the three-match Test series in Rawalpindi which concluded on Day 5 on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led English side posted a mammoth 657 with centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks. In reply, Pakistan made 579, courtesy of tons from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam, but gave a vital 78-run lead.&nbsp;

England went bonkers in their second innings, going at over seven runs an over, to declare at 264 for 7 in 35.5 overs. Chasing 343, Pakistan had four sessions to create history and were cruising at 248 for 5 but James Anderson, Ollie Robinson and Jack Leach chipped in with regular breakthroughs to dismiss Pakistan to 268; winning by 74 runs.

During the match, a plethora of runs were scored as the Rawalpindi tie broke the record for scoring most runs in a five-day Test match (657+579+264+268 = 1,768 runs). The record was previously held in a match played between Australia and West Indies, in 1969,&nbsp;at the Adelaide. Thus, England-Pakistan broke a 53-year-long record.

List of most runs scored in a five-day Test Match in history:

Pakistan vs England, 2022 (Rawalpindi) - 1,768 runs 
Australia vs West Indies, 1969 (Adelaide Oval)- 1,764 runs 
Australia vs India, 2004 (Sydney) - 1,747 runs 
Pakistan vs India, 2006 (Faisalabad)- 1,702 runs 
England vs New Zealand, 2022 (Trent Bridge)- 1,675 runs

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-england-beat-pakistan-in-rawalpindi-540232">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi</a>

At the post-match presentation, Stokes said, "We wanted to come here to Pakistan and carry on with our mantra of exciting cricket. I've got no interest in trying to play for a draw, the dressing room has no interest in playing for a draw. Felt on this kind of wicket, almost had to entice the batsmen to play an attacking shot. Today we were fortunate to get the ball reverse-swinging. James Anderson and Ollie Robinson were fantastic today. We won probably about 8 minutes before we would've come off. This is probably up there as one of England's greatest away wins."

Meanwhile, Babar stated, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end."

The second and penultimate Test will commence on December 09 in Multan.

Pakistan and England met in the first match of the three-match Test series in Rawalpindi which concluded on Day 5 on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led English side posted a mammoth 657 with centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks.

Pakistan and England met in the first match of the three-match Test series in Rawalpindi which concluded on Day 5 on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led English side posted a mammoth 657 with centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks. In reply, Pakistan made 579, courtesy of tons from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam, but gave a vital 78-run lead. England went bonkers in their second innings, going at over seven runs an over, to declare at 264 for 7 in 35.5 overs. Chasing 343, Pakistan had four sessions to create history and were cruising at 248 for 5 but James Anderson, Ollie Robinson and Jack Leach chipped in with regular breakthroughs to dismiss Pakistan to 268; winning by 74 runs. During the match, a plethora of runs were scored as the Rawalpindi tie broke the record for scoring most runs in a five-day Test match (657+579+264+268 = 1,768 runs). The record was previously held in a match played between Australia and West Indies, in 1969, at the Adelaide. Thus, England-Pakistan broke a 53-year-long record. List of most runs scored in a five-day Test Match in history: Pakistan vs England, 2022 (Rawalpindi) - 1,768 runs Australia vs West Indies, 1969 (Adelaide Oval)- 1,764 runs Australia vs India, 2004 (Sydney) - 1,747 runs Pakistan vs India, 2006 (Faisalabad)- 1,702 runs England vs New Zealand, 2022 (Trent Bridge)- 1,675 runs Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi At the post-match presentation, Stokes said, "We wanted to come here to Pakistan and carry on with our mantra of exciting cricket. I've got no interest in trying to play for a draw, the dressing room has no interest in playing for a draw. Felt on this kind of wicket, almost had to entice the batsmen to play an attacking shot. Today we were fortunate to get the ball reverse-swinging. James Anderson and Ollie Robinson were fantastic today. We won probably about 8 minutes before we would've come off. This is probably up there as one of England's greatest away wins." Meanwhile, Babar stated, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end." The second and penultimate Test will commence on December 09 in Multan.

Rawalpindi run-feast: Pakistan-England tie breaks record for most runs scored in a five-day Test

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes &amp; Co. were rewarded for their brave and attacking approach as they beat Babar Azam &amp; Co. in the&nbsp;riveting final&nbsp;moments of the contest.

Opting to bat first, England rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, OIlie Pope and Harry Brooks to be dismissed for 657 (in 101 overs) in their first innings. In reply, Pakistan also made a mammoth 579, courtesy of hundreds from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar, but gave a vital 78-run lead to the visitors who smashed 264/7 in 35.5 overs and declared; setting up a challenging 343-run target.

On the final day, Pakistan were 259 for 5 are seemed like cruising towards the total before James Anderson-Ollie Robinson's four wickets each and Jack Leach chipped in with the last wicket to take their side home; dismissing Pakistan for 268. With this defeat, Pakistan have dented their chances of qualifying for the second&nbsp;ICC World Test Championship final.

Here's how Pakistan's loss is India's gain

Babar &amp; Co. aren't out of contention yet. They are placed&nbsp;fifth in the table, however,&nbsp;wins for Australia or India in their respective upcoming Test series will end Pakistan's chances of entering the final.&nbsp;

On the other hand, if Rohit Sharma's India&nbsp;clean sweep Bangladesh, they can now afford to lose at least one of their upcoming four Tests versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home, early next year, in a bid to qualify. For Australia, if they whitewash West Indies on home soil and beat South Africa in two out of the upcoming three Tests, Down Under, they would also make it&nbsp;to the&nbsp;summit clash.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-england-beat-pakistan-in-rawalpindi-540232">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi</a>

After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end. Lot of positives. Our batting performed very well. Bowling also very well."

Pakistan will also host New Zealand after the England series. However, they have spoiled their chances of going ahead with a loss in the England series opener.

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes & Co.

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes & Co. were rewarded for their brave and attacking approach as they beat Babar Azam & Co. in the riveting final moments of the contest. Opting to bat first, England rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, OIlie Pope and Harry Brooks to be dismissed for 657 (in 101 overs) in their first innings. In reply, Pakistan also made a mammoth 579, courtesy of hundreds from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar, but gave a vital 78-run lead to the visitors who smashed 264/7 in 35.5 overs and declared; setting up a challenging 343-run target. On the final day, Pakistan were 259 for 5 are seemed like cruising towards the total before James Anderson-Ollie Robinson's four wickets each and Jack Leach chipped in with the last wicket to take their side home; dismissing Pakistan for 268. With this defeat, Pakistan have dented their chances of qualifying for the second ICC World Test Championship final. Here's how Pakistan's loss is India's gain Babar & Co. aren't out of contention yet. They are placed fifth in the table, however, wins for Australia or India in their respective upcoming Test series will end Pakistan's chances of entering the final. On the other hand, if Rohit Sharma's India clean sweep Bangladesh, they can now afford to lose at least one of their upcoming four Tests versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home, early next year, in a bid to qualify. For Australia, if they whitewash West Indies on home soil and beat South Africa in two out of the upcoming three Tests, Down Under, they would also make it to the summit clash. Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end. Lot of positives. Our batting performed very well. Bowling also very well." Pakistan will also host New Zealand after the England series. However, they have spoiled their chances of going ahead with a loss in the England series opener.

EXPLAINED: How Pakistan's 74-run loss vs England is a gain for India with WTC final ticket at stake

England and Pakistan were involved in a high-scoring Rawalpindi Test, which made heads turn for its poor surface on offer. Ben Stokes &amp; Co., who had over a majority of players down with a stomach bug prior to the game's commencement, beat Babar Azam-led Pakistan by 74 runs to earn a memorable win in Asian conditions and go 1-0 up in the three-match series on Pakistani soil.

Opting to bat first, Stokes-led Three Lions didn't put a foot wrong as they rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks to post a mammoth 657 all-out in their first essay. In reply, Pakistan also made merry of the placid pitch and rode on centuries from Imam-ul-Haq,&nbsp;Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar to be dismissed for 579; conceding a vital 78-run lead to the visitors.

England's bazball approach continued in their second innings as they scored at over 7 RPO to declare at 264-7; setting a challenging 343-run target for the hosts in the last four sessions. On Day 5, all three results were possible and it seemed like Pakistan's middle-order would take them towards the target before James Anderson and Ollie Robinson's four-fers each took their side to a fitting 74-run win. Here's the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after the Rawalpindi tie:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-eng-2022-1st-test-all-hail-bazball-england-secure-famous-win-in-rawalpindi-by-75-runs-540200">PAK vs ENG 2022, 1st Test: All hail ‘Bazball! England secure famous win in Rawalpindi by 74 runs</a>

<img alt="WTC Points Table after Eng beat Pak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70e1e2d2-5cce-4446-8816-21c3d2370aa8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC%20points%20table_2.png" />

At the post-match presentation, Stokes said, "Some of the things we can't plan for is what happened to the squad before the Test. Seems a long time ago when we were running around to find players for the Test. Will Jacks getting the message three minutes before toss, and Pope getting the gloves. We've played 8-9 matches with myself and Brendon in charge. One thing we try to do is focus on ourselves and not the opposition. We know we're a very exciting team. Was a great batting surface, so it was an opportunity for our batting group. Having the lads truck in like they did today was amazing. Really special group of players. We wanted to come here to Pakistan and carry on with our mantra of exciting cricket. I've got no interest in trying to play for a draw, the dressing room has no interest in playing for a draw. Felt on this kind of wicket, almost had to entice the batsmen to play an attacking shot. Today we were fortunate to get the ball reverse-swinging. James Anderson and Ollie Robinson were fantastic today. We won probably about 8 minutes before we would've come off. This is probably up there as one of England's greatest away wins."

The second and penultimate Test begins on December 09 in Multan.

England and Pakistan were involved in a high-scoring Rawalpindi Test, which made heads turn for its poor surface on offer. Ben Stokes & Co., who had over a majority of players down with a stomach bug prior to the game's commencement, beat Babar Azam-led Pakistan by 74 runs to earn a memorable win in Asian conditions and go 1-0 up in the three-match series on Pakistani soil.

England and Pakistan were involved in a high-scoring Rawalpindi Test, which made heads turn for its poor surface on offer. Ben Stokes & Co., who had over a majority of players down with a stomach bug prior to the game's commencement, beat Babar Azam-led Pakistan by 74 runs to earn a memorable win in Asian conditions and go 1-0 up in the three-match series on Pakistani soil. Opting to bat first, Stokes-led Three Lions didn't put a foot wrong as they rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks to post a mammoth 657 all-out in their first essay. In reply, Pakistan also made merry of the placid pitch and rode on centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar to be dismissed for 579; conceding a vital 78-run lead to the visitors. England's bazball approach continued in their second innings as they scored at over 7 RPO to declare at 264-7; setting a challenging 343-run target for the hosts in the last four sessions. On Day 5, all three results were possible and it seemed like Pakistan's middle-order would take them towards the target before James Anderson and Ollie Robinson's four-fers each took their side to a fitting 74-run win. Here's the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after the Rawalpindi tie: Also read: PAK vs ENG 2022, 1st Test: All hail ‘Bazball! England secure famous win in Rawalpindi by 74 runs At the post-match presentation, Stokes said, "Some of the things we can't plan for is what happened to the squad before the Test. Seems a long time ago when we were running around to find players for the Test. Will Jacks getting the message three minutes before toss, and Pope getting the gloves. We've played 8-9 matches with myself and Brendon in charge. One thing we try to do is focus on ourselves and not the opposition. We know we're a very exciting team. Was a great batting surface, so it was an opportunity for our batting group. Having the lads truck in like they did today was amazing. Really special group of players. We wanted to come here to Pakistan and carry on with our mantra of exciting cricket. I've got no interest in trying to play for a draw, the dressing room has no interest in playing for a draw. Felt on this kind of wicket, almost had to entice the batsmen to play an attacking shot. Today we were fortunate to get the ball reverse-swinging. James Anderson and Ollie Robinson were fantastic today. We won probably about 8 minutes before we would've come off. This is probably up there as one of England's greatest away wins." The second and penultimate Test begins on December 09 in Multan.

Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi

What does a batter like Joe Root do when playing on an absolute flat deck where the ball has not shown signs of any movement or spin in eons and the team is miles ahead in the game?

What does a batter like Joe Root do when playing on an absolute flat deck where the ball has not shown signs of any movement or spin in eons and the team is miles ahead in the game? They bat left-handed to try to give themselves some sort of a challenge. The former England captain took everyone by surprise on the fourth day of the ongoing Rawalpindi Test when he became a left-handed batter. In the 23rd over of England's second innings, Joe Root facing leg spinner Zahid Mahmood took guard as a proper left-hander and swept a delivery on the pads to the left of short square leg. While it was a catching opportunity, the diving fielder in Naseem Shah failed to pouch it as the batters trudged across to complete the single. Coming to the shot, Root looked in perfect shape for a batter who is conventionally a right-hander. Most batters tend to remain in their natural stance before the ball is bowled before switching sides. The likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Warner have been masters of the switch hit over the years. However, Root did nothing of that sort as he became a left-hander for the particular delivery. Joe Root decides to bat left-handed 😳#PAKvENG | #UKSePK pic.twitter.com/GOvnkof54B — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 4, 2022 × However, a few overs after the incident, it was Mahmood that had the last laugh as he managed to pitch one on length outside the leg stump as Root attempted another sweep, albeit as a right-hander. This time, the ball took the leading edge and ballooned straight into the hands of Imam Ul Haq at short fine leg who completed the regulation take. Root and his ingenious ideas Root has been at the centre of intriguing events during the Test match. On the third day, Root garnered headlines after he took the red cherry and gently rubbed it over Jack Leach's bald head. "Absolutely ingenious!" Root finds a unique way of shining the ball with the help of Leach 🤝😅#PAKvENG | #UKSePK pic.twitter.com/mYkmfI0lhK — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 3, 2022 × WATCH | Joe Root invents a new method to shine the cricket ball during Rawalpindi Test Commentators Urooj Mumtaz, Dawid Gower and Nasser Hussain were amused by Root's out-of-the-box thinking and had a good laugh about it. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Joe Root becomes left-handed batter on the placid Rawalpindi pitch

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett,&nbsp;Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test.

Former English captain Joe Root didn't make the most of the batting-friendly wicket, in Rawalpindi, and was dismissed for 23. Nonetheless, the right-hander&nbsp;achieved a new world record by upstaging arch-rival Virat Kohli. By virtue of his knock, Root has now become the leading run-scorer of all time in competitions comprising&nbsp;five&nbsp;or more teams,&nbsp;such as the ICC World Test Championship, T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, and ICC Champions Trophy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rawalpindi-test-england-create-history-ben-stokes-co-become-first-team-to-hit-most-runs-on-day-1-539124">Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes &amp; Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1</a>

The 31-year-old Root has 5,121 runs, at&nbsp;52.25, along with 15 centuries and 22 half-centuries&nbsp;in 77 matches. On the other hand, the Indian star batter Kohli's tally reads&nbsp;5,107 runs in 114 games, averaging an impressive&nbsp;51.58 with&nbsp;six hundreds and as many as 40 half-centuries in such multi-nation competitions (with 5 or more teams).

Root&nbsp;will like to add more runs to his overall tally in the second innings of the first Test versus Pakistan. The visitors are cruising towards the 600-run mark, at the time of publishing this report, and have put the Babar Azam-led Pakistan on the back foot in the series opener.

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test.

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. Former English captain Joe Root didn't make the most of the batting-friendly wicket, in Rawalpindi, and was dismissed for 23. Nonetheless, the right-hander achieved a new world record by upstaging arch-rival Virat Kohli. By virtue of his knock, Root has now become the leading run-scorer of all time in competitions comprising five or more teams, such as the ICC World Test Championship, T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, and ICC Champions Trophy. Also read: Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes & Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1 The 31-year-old Root has 5,121 runs, at 52.25, along with 15 centuries and 22 half-centuries in 77 matches. On the other hand, the Indian star batter Kohli's tally reads 5,107 runs in 114 games, averaging an impressive 51.58 with six hundreds and as many as 40 half-centuries in such multi-nation competitions (with 5 or more teams). Root will like to add more runs to his overall tally in the second innings of the first Test versus Pakistan. The visitors are cruising towards the 600-run mark, at the time of publishing this report, and have put the Babar Azam-led Pakistan on the back foot in the series opener.

Joe Root upstages Virat Kohli to achieve new world record during opening day of Pakistan-England Test

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4. Thus, England has created a world record for scoring the most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. In 1910, Australia had ended the Sydney Test's opening day's play at 494-6 versus South Africa. Thus, their arch-rivals in England have surpassed them to break the record after 112&nbsp;long years.&nbsp;

Coming out to bat, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett made merry of the batting conditions versus the Shaheen Afridi-less bowling attack. England reached 174 for no loss at the lunch break, moving past India's 158/0 (27 overs) to have the most runs by a team in the first session. Crawley scored a 111-ball 122, Duckett departed for a well-made 107 whereas keeper-batter Ollie Pope scored a hundred (108) before Harry Brooks remained unbeaten on 101. Captain Stokes also joined the party and remains unbeaten on a 15-ball 34, laced with 6 fours and a six, as the visitors piled on the miseries versus Pakistan. Thus, England became the first-ever side to hit 500 runs on the opening day of a Test match.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/run-machine-steve-smith-equals-don-bradmans-tally-with-splendid-knock-in-australia-west-indies-test-539065">Run machine Steve Smith equals Don Bradman's tally with splendid knock in Australia-West Indies Test</a>

The day saw as many as 73 fours and three sixes being scored by the English batters as Pakistani bowlers had no answers to their onslaught. While England's bazball approach has been hailed by many on social media platforms, many also slammed the dead wicket at Rawalpindi with bowlers having no say throughout the day.&nbsp;

Day Two will bring in a new challenge for Pakistan as they have a herculean task to stop England from running away from the game. Anything over 650 looks certain as of now unless a collapse takes place. In reply, Pakistani batters will have to bat very well and come close to England's first-innings score if they wish to stay alive in the game.

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4.

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4. Thus, England has created a world record for scoring the most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. In 1910, Australia had ended the Sydney Test's opening day's play at 494-6 versus South Africa. Thus, their arch-rivals in England have surpassed them to break the record after 112 long years. Coming out to bat, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett made merry of the batting conditions versus the Shaheen Afridi-less bowling attack. England reached 174 for no loss at the lunch break, moving past India's 158/0 (27 overs) to have the most runs by a team in the first session. Crawley scored a 111-ball 122, Duckett departed for a well-made 107 whereas keeper-batter Ollie Pope scored a hundred (108) before Harry Brooks remained unbeaten on 101. Captain Stokes also joined the party and remains unbeaten on a 15-ball 34, laced with 6 fours and a six, as the visitors piled on the miseries versus Pakistan. Thus, England became the first-ever side to hit 500 runs on the opening day of a Test match. Also read: Run machine Steve Smith equals Don Bradman's tally with splendid knock in Australia-West Indies Test The day saw as many as 73 fours and three sixes being scored by the English batters as Pakistani bowlers had no answers to their onslaught. While England's bazball approach has been hailed by many on social media platforms, many also slammed the dead wicket at Rawalpindi with bowlers having no say throughout the day. Day Two will bring in a new challenge for Pakistan as they have a herculean task to stop England from running away from the game. Anything over 650 looks certain as of now unless a collapse takes place. In reply, Pakistani batters will have to bat very well and come close to England's first-innings score if they wish to stay alive in the game.

Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes & Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1

Pakistan vs England, Rawalpindi run-feast: Most runs scored on a single day of a Test

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as&nbsp;1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall.&nbsp;

Thus, the historic Test between Pakistan and Australia was a dull affair and ended in&nbsp;a tame draw with no even contest between bat and ball. The pitch for the three-match series opener was, thus, heavily criticised on social media platforms as it wasn't a perfect endorsement for Test cricket. Following the criticism, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja came forward and defended the Rawalpindi pitch.

"A drawn match is never a good advertisement for Test cricket, and I totally understand that we need to get a result in five days these days, and we get it 90% [of the time], but I want to remind you of 2-3 things," Ramiz said in a video message posted on PCB's official Twitter handle.

"It takes 5-6 months to prepare pitches, and during the off-season, you will see - soil is coming from Australia; we've experimented, consulted soil experts and prepared soils, and we will redo 50-60 pitches all over Pakistan once our season ends in March-April. " He further opined, "I understand the fans' frustration and it would have been great if there was a result in this Test match. But do remember that this is a three-Test series and there is a lot of cricket left to be played. We cannot make a fast or bouncy pitch for the heck of it and put the conditions in Australia's lap. It is important that when we play at home, we play according to our strengths."

&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/understand-fans-frustration-ramiz-raja-reacts-as-pcb-gets-slammed-for-flat-pitch-in-rawalpindi-test-460916">'Understand fans' frustration': Ramiz Raja reacts as PCB gets slammed for 'flat' pitch in Rawalpindi Test</a>

&nbsp;

Following Ramiz's comments, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed the former Men in Green captain. Speaking on his Youtube channel, he said,&nbsp;"What Ramiz Raja said today was nothing but a lame excuse and has misled Pakistani fans with the same. He has lied and has betrayed the fans. It's okay, he was busy in his son's wedding. He attended the wedding but then saw there was a lot of noise surrounding the dead wicket. The Test grew a lot of eyeballs as Australia was touring Pakistan after these many years, but what wicket did they produce for that?," questioned the tainted cricketer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-join-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-in-indias-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-460955">Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

&nbsp;

Kaneria also slammed Babar and said, "What were you afraid of? You had bowlers, but you didn't play them. You have a weak captain who cannot be aggressive while leading the side. It was such a wicket that even Ramiz Raja would have scored runs on it even at this age."

The second and penultimate Test between both sides will commence on March 12 at&nbsp;National Stadium, Karachi.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as 1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as 1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall. Thus, the historic Test between Pakistan and Australia was a dull affair and ended in a tame draw with no even contest between bat and ball. The pitch for the three-match series opener was, thus, heavily criticised on social media platforms as it wasn't a perfect endorsement for Test cricket. Following the criticism, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja came forward and defended the Rawalpindi pitch. "A drawn match is never a good advertisement for Test cricket, and I totally understand that we need to get a result in five days these days, and we get it 90% [of the time], but I want to remind you of 2-3 things," Ramiz said in a video message posted on PCB's official Twitter handle. "It takes 5-6 months to prepare pitches, and during the off-season, you will see - soil is coming from Australia; we've experimented, consulted soil experts and prepared soils, and we will redo 50-60 pitches all over Pakistan once our season ends in March-April. " He further opined, "I understand the fans' frustration and it would have been great if there was a result in this Test match. But do remember that this is a three-Test series and there is a lot of cricket left to be played. We cannot make a fast or bouncy pitch for the heck of it and put the conditions in Australia's lap. It is important that when we play at home, we play according to our strengths." ALSO READ | 'Understand fans' frustration': Ramiz Raja reacts as PCB gets slammed for 'flat' pitch in Rawalpindi Test Following Ramiz's comments, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed the former Men in Green captain. Speaking on his Youtube channel, he said, "What Ramiz Raja said today was nothing but a lame excuse and has misled Pakistani fans with the same. He has lied and has betrayed the fans. It's okay, he was busy in his son's wedding. He attended the wedding but then saw there was a lot of noise surrounding the dead wicket. The Test grew a lot of eyeballs as Australia was touring Pakistan after these many years, but what wicket did they produce for that?," questioned the tainted cricketer. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Kaneria also slammed Babar and said, "What were you afraid of? You had bowlers, but you didn't play them. You have a weak captain who cannot be aggressive while leading the side. It was such a wicket that even Ramiz Raja would have scored runs on it even at this age." The second and penultimate Test between both sides will commence on March 12 at National Stadium, Karachi.

He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.&nbsp;

Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't&nbsp;end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton&nbsp;in late 2019).

The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-say-just-how-much-i-love-him-ricky-ponting-breaks-down-as-he-recalls-late-shane-warne-460021">I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne</a>

One of the banners read that the fan really wanted&nbsp;Kohli to break his century drought and get to&nbsp;his 71st&nbsp;international ton&nbsp;in Pakistan. On the other hand,&nbsp;the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen."

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Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/mrKEaPFQEe">pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe</a>
— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArfaSays_/status/1500414935796441093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

For the unversed, another fan had&nbsp;a banner-- during PSL 2022 --&nbsp;in which he expressed his desire&nbsp;to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred.&nbsp;

With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12&nbsp;at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali. Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton in late 2019). The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter. ALSO READ | I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne One of the banners read that the fan really wanted Kohli to break his century drought and get to his 71st international ton in Pakistan. On the other hand, the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen." Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium #PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe — Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 For the unversed, another fan had a banner-- during PSL 2022 -- in which he expressed his desire to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred. With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam & Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

We want your 71st century in Pakistan: Fan's message for Virat Kohli wins hearts

Australia commenced their tour of Pakistan, after a long gap of 24 years, with the first Test at Rawalpindi, which got underway on March 04. After Babar Azam-led Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first to declare at 476-4, Australia had to ensure they batted well on the moving day, i.e. Day 3, of the first Test on Sunday (March 06).

Marnus Labuschagne led the charge for the Pat Cummins-led visitors, after a 156-run opening stand between half-centuries David Warner and Usman Khawaja, to take the team total forward on Day 3 with No. 4 batter Steve Smith. During his 158-ball 90-run knock, the No. 1 Test batter&nbsp;Labuschagne coped up with a blow while trying to sweep a delivery from spinner&nbsp;Nauman Ali&nbsp;but the vicious delivery ended up hitting him on his right arm. Thus, keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan saw&nbsp;Labuschagne getting hit and came to his aid at one go.

PCB's official Twitter handle also shared the clip of Rizwan's gesture and wrote, "Rizwan is more than happy to help." Here's the video of Rizwan's appreciable gesture for the No. 1 Test batter&nbsp;Labuschagne:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/honestly-have-no-idea-rohit-sharma-on-why-r-ashwin-hasnt-featured-regularly-in-overseas-tests-459912">'Honestly, have no idea': Rohit Sharma on why R Ashwin hasn't featured regularly in overseas Tests</a>

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Rizwan is more than happy to help😄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoysReadyHain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoysReadyHain</a> l <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/yV9H595UAo">pic.twitter.com/yV9H595UAo</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1500426404470665219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-gives-naseem-shah-a-pat-on-shoulder-as-pakistan-pacer-tries-to-sledge-him-watch-459865">David Warner gives Naseem Shah a pat on shoulder as Pakistan pacer tries to sledge him - WATCH</a>

Eventually,&nbsp;Labuschagne departed for 90, missing out on a well-deserved ton in what was his maiden outing on Pakistani soil. Talking about the first Test, Australia ended the fourth and penultimate day's play at 449-7, trailing the home side by 26 runs. Much of the day's play was lost due to damp outfield conditions.&nbsp;At present, the match seems to be heading into a dull draw unless a dramatic turnaround is on the cards. The weather for the fifth and final day is clear, hence, fans will hope to see a riveting end to the historic Test between both sides.

Australia commenced their tour of Pakistan, after a long gap of 24 years, with the first Test at Rawalpindi, which got underway on March 04. After Babar Azam-led Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first to declare at 476-4, Australia had to ensure they batted well on the moving day, i.

Australia commenced their tour of Pakistan, after a long gap of 24 years, with the first Test at Rawalpindi, which got underway on March 04. After Babar Azam-led Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first to declare at 476-4, Australia had to ensure they batted well on the moving day, i.e. Day 3, of the first Test on Sunday (March 06). Marnus Labuschagne led the charge for the Pat Cummins-led visitors, after a 156-run opening stand between half-centuries David Warner and Usman Khawaja, to take the team total forward on Day 3 with No. 4 batter Steve Smith. During his 158-ball 90-run knock, the No. 1 Test batter Labuschagne coped up with a blow while trying to sweep a delivery from spinner Nauman Ali but the vicious delivery ended up hitting him on his right arm. Thus, keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan saw Labuschagne getting hit and came to his aid at one go. PCB's official Twitter handle also shared the clip of Rizwan's gesture and wrote, "Rizwan is more than happy to help." Here's the video of Rizwan's appreciable gesture for the No. 1 Test batter Labuschagne: ALSO READ | 'Honestly, have no idea': Rohit Sharma on why R Ashwin hasn't featured regularly in overseas Tests Rizwan is more than happy to help😄#BoysReadyHain l #PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/yV9H595UAo — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | David Warner gives Naseem Shah a pat on shoulder as Pakistan pacer tries to sledge him - WATCH Eventually, Labuschagne departed for 90, missing out on a well-deserved ton in what was his maiden outing on Pakistani soil. Talking about the first Test, Australia ended the fourth and penultimate day's play at 449-7, trailing the home side by 26 runs. Much of the day's play was lost due to damp outfield conditions. At present, the match seems to be heading into a dull draw unless a dramatic turnaround is on the cards. The weather for the fifth and final day is clear, hence, fans will hope to see a riveting end to the historic Test between both sides.

WATCH: Rizwan comes to Labuschagne's aid after Aussie batter suffers a blow while batting in 1st Test

A combination of rain and bad light played spoilsport on the second day of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-test-pak-pacers-make-merry-as-lankan-batsmen-falter-on-day-1-267736">historic Rawalpindi Test</a> between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Thursday.

The visitors had battled their way to 202 for 5 on an already truncated day 1, however, only 16.2 more overs of play was possible today.

Dhananjaya de Silva reached his sixth Test fifty and added 20 runs to the team score with his overnight partner Niroshan Dickwella until the first rain interruption that washed out the entire second session.

Play resumed at 1:45pm local time and De Silva and Dickwella's partnership swelled to 67 runs but Shaheen Shah Afridi provided the breakthrough by having Dickwella caught at gully for 33.

De Silva though had taken his tally to 72 and was at the crease with Dilruwan Perera (85.3) when bad light forced the players off again at 2:30pm and play was abandoned for the day an hour later.

At the close Sri Lanka were 263-6 with Dhananjaya de Silva unbeaten on 72 and Dilruwan Perera not out on two.

The Rawalpindi Test is taking place in Pakistan for the first time after Lahore terror strike in 2009 which led to Pakistan's isolation as countries refused to tour, however, with the current Test interest has once again generated in the country, but fans were left frustrated as showers on the first day, then downpour on Thursday led to large-scale disruption disappointing those gathered to watch the day's play.

The second Test starts in Karachi from December 19.

A combination of rain and bad light played spoilsport on the second day of the historic Rawalpindi Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Thursday. The visitors had battled their way to 202 for 5 on an already truncated day 1, however, only 16.

A combination of rain and bad light played spoilsport on the second day of the historic Rawalpindi Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Thursday. The visitors had battled their way to 202 for 5 on an already truncated day 1, however, only 16.2 more overs of play was possible today. Dhananjaya de Silva reached his sixth Test fifty and added 20 runs to the team score with his overnight partner Niroshan Dickwella until the first rain interruption that washed out the entire second session. Play resumed at 1:45pm local time and De Silva and Dickwella's partnership swelled to 67 runs but Shaheen Shah Afridi provided the breakthrough by having Dickwella caught at gully for 33. De Silva though had taken his tally to 72 and was at the crease with Dilruwan Perera (85.3) when bad light forced the players off again at 2:30pm and play was abandoned for the day an hour later. At the close Sri Lanka were 263-6 with Dhananjaya de Silva unbeaten on 72 and Dilruwan Perera not out on two. The Rawalpindi Test is taking place in Pakistan for the first time after Lahore terror strike in 2009 which led to Pakistan's isolation as countries refused to tour, however, with the current Test interest has once again generated in the country, but fans were left frustrated as showers on the first day, then downpour on Thursday led to large-scale disruption disappointing those gathered to watch the day's play. The second Test starts in Karachi from December 19.

Rawalpindi Test: Rain, bad light plays spoilsport as Sri Lanka defy Pakistan on day-2

Heavy security presence and overnight showers greeted the teams at the Rawalpindi stadium for the first Test match in Pakistan since the Lahore attacks of 2009.

Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first despite the overcast conditions in a sparsely attended match with just 8,000 fans in the stadium. The islanders did brilliantly to blunt Pakistan's all-pace attack in the first session.

Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Oshada Fernando both survived close lbw shouts but were largely untroubled as they took their team to 89 for no loss at lunch.

However, all the hard work was undone in a nightmare second session as Shaheen Shah Afridi had Karunaratne lbw and 16-year-old pacer Naseem Shah then got Fernando to knick one to slip.

Debutant Usman Shinwari then dismissed Kusal Mendis for just 10 runs and Dinesh Chandimal followed soon after as Sri Lanka slid to 127 for 4.

Angelo Mathews and Dhanajaya de Silva then shared a dogged 62-run stand to begin the recovery but the youngster Naseem Shah struck again to remove Mathews for 31.

Dhananjaya De Silva and Niroshan Dickwella were at the crease when bad light forced an early end to the day's play with the visitors on 202-5.

Naseem said after the day's play that he was "happy to play the lead role".

"I enjoyed a lot and the whole crowd was supporting me," he said.&nbsp;

"Whenever I bowled a good delivery, they supported me. I was very excited that I was playing before the home crowd and got two wickets."

The second Test starts in Karachi from December 19.

Heavy security presence and overnight showers greeted the teams at the Rawalpindi stadium for the first Test match in Pakistan since the Lahore attacks of 2009. Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first despite the overcast conditions in a sparsely attended match with just 8,000 fans in the stadium.

Heavy security presence and overnight showers greeted the teams at the Rawalpindi stadium for the first Test match in Pakistan since the Lahore attacks of 2009. Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first despite the overcast conditions in a sparsely attended match with just 8,000 fans in the stadium. The islanders did brilliantly to blunt Pakistan's all-pace attack in the first session. Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Oshada Fernando both survived close lbw shouts but were largely untroubled as they took their team to 89 for no loss at lunch. However, all the hard work was undone in a nightmare second session as Shaheen Shah Afridi had Karunaratne lbw and 16-year-old pacer Naseem Shah then got Fernando to knick one to slip. Debutant Usman Shinwari then dismissed Kusal Mendis for just 10 runs and Dinesh Chandimal followed soon after as Sri Lanka slid to 127 for 4. Angelo Mathews and Dhanajaya de Silva then shared a dogged 62-run stand to begin the recovery but the youngster Naseem Shah struck again to remove Mathews for 31. Dhananjaya De Silva and Niroshan Dickwella were at the crease when bad light forced an early end to the day's play with the visitors on 202-5. Naseem said after the day's play that he was "happy to play the lead role". "I enjoyed a lot and the whole crowd was supporting me," he said. "Whenever I bowled a good delivery, they supported me. I was very excited that I was playing before the home crowd and got two wickets." The second Test starts in Karachi from December 19.

First Test: Pak pacers make merry as Lankan batsmen falter on Day-1

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