England defeated Pakistan by 74 runs in the first test match of the three-match series on Monday in the fading light of Rawalpindi.
England declared their second innings on 264-7 after scoring 657 in their first, they gave Pakistan an improbable 343-run winning target on a flat track.
Saud Shakeel scored the most runs for Pakistan with 76 as they fought valiantly and added 268 before going out in the thrilling final session.
The most effective English bowlers were James Anderson (4-36) and Ollie Robinson (4-50), while Jack Leach took the decisive wicket.
Pakistan’s chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship 2021–23 final have been weakened as a result of a defeat to England in Rawalpindi late on day five.
The five home Test matches against England and New Zealand gave Pakistan, who was ranked fifth in the ICC World Test Championship standings, a chance to go to the final.
Pakistan’s loss is a serious setback even though England isn’t likely to make it to the World Championship final.
Pakistan would be eliminated if Australia or India wins their respective series.
India can now seal their position even if they lose one of the Tests against Australia at home, assuming they sweep Bangladesh, making them the favorites to advance to the WTC final as a result of Pakistan’s defeat.
Australia would still have a good chance of making the championship game if they win the final Test against the West Indies and at least two Tests against South Africa.
