Pakistan’s Test skipper Shan Masood and opener Abdullah Shafique etched their names into the history books on the opening day of the first Test against England in Multan. On a grassy surface that belied its dryness, the duo forged an indelible partnership that shattered records and tested England’s inexperienced bowlers to their limits.
After Pakistan lost young opener Saim Ayub early to Gus Atkinson, Masood and Shafique embarked on a sensational 253-run stand for the second wicket. Their partnership became the fourth-highest for the second wicket in Pakistan Test cricket history, surpassing the previous record held by the legendary duo of Mushtaq Mohammad and Zaheer Abbas.
Masood played the role of aggressor, scoring at a strike rate of 100 for much of his innings. Shafique, on the other hand, adopted a more cautious approach, especially when England resorted to a barrage of short balls in the second session.
The record-breaking partnership came to an end after both players began to show signs of cramping up. Shafique’s tired shot in Atkinson’s over resulted in his dismissal for 102(184). Masood soon followed suit, caught by Jack Leach after misjudging a tossed-up delivery. He departed with a score of 151(177).
The 253-run partnership was the second-highest ever witnessed at the Multan cricket stadium in Test format, behind only the iconic 336-run stand between India’s Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar. It was also the first time in five years that England had conceded a 250-plus runs partnership in Test cricket.
Masood and Shafique’s record-tumbling stand set the tone for Pakistan’s innings and gave them a commanding position in the match. Their partnership showcased their resilience, determination, and ability to adapt to challenging conditions. It will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most memorable partnerships in Pakistan Test cricket history.
