Pakistan’s 21-year-old batter Razaullah produced an aggressive 81 on his Test debut against England, hitting nine sixes as Pakistan recovered during the third Test and drew criticism of England’s bowling tactics from former captain Alastair Cook.
Batting at No. 9, Razaullah faced 63 balls and struck nine sixes in an innings that helped Pakistan reach 453 all out. He also shared a crucial 121-run ninth-wicket partnership with Mohammad Abbas, leaving England with a target of 130 runs.
Cook Questions England’s Bowling Plan
Former England captain Alastair Cook said England appeared to lack a clear plan against Razaullah’s power-hitting.
Cook suggested that the coaching staff and team leadership should have provided clearer instructions as England struggled to contain the aggressive batting during the lower-order partnership.
Former England fast bowler Jonathan Agnew also questioned the hosts’ tactics, particularly the decision to use Dan Lawrence with the second new ball while England’s fast bowlers continued to rely heavily on short deliveries.
Razaullah Matches Test Debut Sixes Record
Razaullah’s nine sixes matched the record for the most sixes hit by a batter in a single innings on Test debut.
His attacking contribution proved significant as Pakistan recovered from a difficult position and pushed their total to 453 before being bowled out.
England were set a target of 130 runs after Pakistan’s innings, with the result of the third Test still to be decided.