Ganesh Kendale
Pakistan’s hopes in the World Test Championship (WTC) took a massive hit as they dropped to the bottom of the standings following a crushing defeat against England in Multan on Friday. Despite scoring an impressive 556 in their first innings, Pakistan succumbed to an innings-and-47-run loss, marking a historic collapse on home soil.
The first Test seemed destined for a draw after both teams posted huge totals on a flat pitch.Pakistan’s first-innings effort was followed by England’s record-breaking 823/7 before declaring on the fourth day. However, England’s bowlers capitalized on Pakistan’s vulnerability, reducing them to six wickets down by stumps on Day 4. On the final day, Pakistan folded for just 220, with England’s Jack Leach taking 4-30 to wrap up the tail.
This defeat has seen Pakistan plummet to the bottom of the WTC standings with a dismal 16.67 percentage points, having won only two of their eight matches in the current WTC cycle. This loss was also the sixth consecutive Test defeat for Pakistan under captain Shan Masood, effectively ending their chances of making it to the WTC final.
The collapse was unprecedented in Test history, as Pakistan became the only team to lose despite posting over 500 runs in their first innings. The defeat has highlighted the team’s struggles in the longest format, particularly on home soil.
Meanwhile, England’s victory has consolidated their fourth position in the WTC standings, boosting their percentage points to 45.59. India continue to lead the table with 74.24 percentage points, followed by Australia with 62.50, and Sri Lanka in third with 55.56.
The second Test between Pakistan and England begins on October 15 in Multan, with England looking to continue their push for a spot in the WTC final. Pakistan, on the other hand, will aim to salvage some pride and end their losing streak.
