Babar Azam replacement Kamran Ghulam slams fifty in maiden Test outing

Pakistan found themselves in a precarious position at 19 for 2 but debutant Kamran Ghulam’s remarkable hundred steered the home side back on track on Day 1 of the second Test against England in Multan. Ghulam played a composed knock of 118 from 224 balls to guide Pakistan to 259 for five in Multan, showcasing his class and skill, particularly against spin.

Meanwhile, Jack Leach became the first England spinner since Johnny Briggs in 1889 to take two wickets in the first ten overs of a Test match. Pakistan's top-order wobbled, but Ghulam, along with Saim Ayub, who contributed a patient 77, stabilized the innings with a crucial 149-run stand. Ghulam’s debut century, a milestone that had eluded the out-of-form Babar Azam in recent months, came at a crucial time, as his poise and patience held Pakistan's innings together.

England's captain Ben Stokes, back from injury, was instrumental with his attacking field placements, though a wicket eluded him. Pakistan's top order had been reshuffled following their innings defeat in the series opener, with star pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah also rested for this match.