England v Pakistan – Looking ahead to Day 4

As it happened on day 3

This match has been like a seesaw and the balance has been shifting constantly. At the end of day 2, Pakistan were in the drivers seat having England four down when they were trailing by 234 runs ( https://justcricket.home.blog/2020/08/06/england-vs-pakistan-looking-ahead-to-day-3/). Ollie Pope looked the best amongst the England batsman batting with great composure and attitude. Jos Butler also tried his best to survive out in the middle. 

However, as we had expected, Yasir Shah troubled the English batsman and the pitch also assisted him. He got four wickets in quick succession leaving England in a spot of bother. Shadab Khan also came into the attack towards the end, wrapping up the innings by picking up the last two wickets. Ollie Pope was the pick of the English batsman scoring 62 runs, but England were bowled out for 219 giving Pakistan a 107 runs lead.  

Given the way Pakistan batted in the first innings, fans would have expected them to post a good lead and win the match comfortably. However, once the first innings centurion Shaan Masood got out for no runs, England bowlers were switched on and started believing the game was still not over. Although a few catches were put down, the bowlers stuck to their game plan. The pitch also assisted the bowlers as it kept the pacers and spinners interested throughout. The more we saw, it was evident that it would be tough for England to chase anything more than 250 -270. Asad Shafiq and Mohammad Rizwan were aware of this situation as they were positive and kept the scoreboard ticking. But they did not last too long as England continued to dominate. Broad and Woakes got 2 wicket each and towards the end, unexpectedly Ben Stokes was given the ball for the first time in the match and he picked up 2 wickets as well, leaving Pakistan at 137/8 at the end of days play with a lead of 244 runs. 

Day 4 Expectation

Looking at how the day unfolded, it definitely looks like batting is going be challenging on this surface when bowlers hit their marks. Pakistan’s effort in the first innings still gives them a slight advantage. 

England will be looking to wrap up the innings as soon as possible in the morning. A target of around 250 runs will give both teams decent chances to win the match and take lead in the series. However, the English batsman will have to pull up their socks and apply themselves much better in the second innings. 

The Pakistani attack should feel confident of defending any score from here given the confidence they would have from dismissing England for 219 in the first innings. This match might well go down to the wire.

Even with 8 down for 137 runs, Pakistan are still have the advantage to win this game, but England who will feel confident with their comeback cannot be written out at all. Day 4 should give plenty of entertainment to the cricket fans around the world. 

Key to Success on Day 4:

Pakistan – Yasir Shah

England – Englands middle order Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope