Razaullah’s 81-run surge halts England’s whitewash march in third Test

Key points

• Pakistan were 52-2 at the close of day two, trailing by 268 runs, before a late surge on day three.
• Ollie Robinson, who took 21 wickets in the series, dismissed Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique in his opening over on day two.
• Razaullah scored 81 off 73 balls, including nine sixes, tying the record for most sixes in a Test innings in England.
• Mohammad Abbas added 42, forming a 121-run ninth-wicket partnership that reversed Pakistan’s deficit from 136 to a 117-run lead.
• England will bat on day four needing 130 runs to win the match and complete a 3-0 series whitewash.

Background

England held a commanding 320-run lead after their first innings of 453, anchored by Harry Brook (75), Jamie Smith (69), and Dan Lawrence (65). Pakistan were bowled out for 133 in the first innings, with Josh Tongue taking 4-42. Rain interrupted play on day two, leaving Pakistan 52-2 and 268 runs behind at stumps. This match is the third in a five-match Test series between England and Pakistan.

How outlets are covering it

BBC Sport highlighted the tactical shift by England, noting how Josh Tongue’s bouncer ploy unsettled Babar Azam, leading to his dismissal for 76. Al Jazeera emphasized Ollie Robinson’s dominance, citing his 21-wicket haul at an average under seven runs. The Guardian focused on the dramatic reversal, praising Razaullah’s aggressive batting and the 121-run ninth-wicket partnership that nearly overturned England’s lead. All outlets agreed that Pakistan’s top-order collapse was decisive, but differed on the impact of the late surge, with The Guardian calling it a 'dream' partnership while BBC Sport noted England’s persistent pressure.

Why it matters

The match determines whether England completes a 3-0 series whitewash, a significant achievement given Pakistan’s recent form, having lost 15 of their last 20 Tests. Razaullah’s performance offers hope for Pakistan’s future, while England’s chase of 130 on day four will test their batting depth. The series outcome also influences international rankings and team morale for both nations.

What to watch

England will bat on day four needing 130 runs to win the match and the series. Pakistan’s remaining batters, including Mohammad Ali, will attempt to set a target, but England’s bowling attack, led by Robinson and Archer, is expected to maintain pressure. The series continues with the fourth Test, where both teams will assess their performances and adjust strategies.