Rawalpindi: Pakistan cricket team’s vice-captain Saud Shakeel played a marathon innings against England in the first innings of the Rawalpindi Test, showcasing his resilience and determination. This innings will be remembered for a long time, not only for its duration but also for its impact on the game.
Saud Shakeel stood firm at the crease despite wickets falling around him, facing pressure from English captain Ben Stokes’ aggressive field settings and bowling strategies. He responded with a defensive approach, utilizing his focus, patience, and dedication to deliver a century that drove Pakistan to a commanding position in the Test.
Saud Shakeel’s innings not only saved Pakistan from a significant deficit but also provided a crucial 77-run lead. His century included 77 singles, demonstrating his attention to detail and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. He scored only five boundaries in his 134 , which spanned over 220 deliveries.
This century may seem like just another three-figure score on the scoreboard, but in reality, it’s a masterpiece that Pakistan’s batsmen have been missing for a long time.
In the post-match press conference, Saud Shakeel expressed his thoughts, saying, “I wish I could score a century every day, but that’s not possible.” He emphasized his approach to batting, stating, “I try to start well, and when the ball gets old, I adjust my game accordingly.”
Regarding his batting strategy, Saud Shakeel said, “I had an idea of how to play their spinners. My focus is on playing according to the situation, and I don’t worry about the run rate.” He added, “I try to perform better whenever I bat, regardless of the number.”
Commenting on the Rawalpindi pitch, Saud Shakeel noted, “On such wickets, you expect any kind of ball, so you have to be prepared. In Test cricket, you should strive to do better as the game progresses.”
