Pakistan endured a humiliating loss against England in the first Test match at Multan, surrendering by an innings and 47 runs. This defeat marked a new low for the hosts, as it was the first time in Test history that a team has lost by an innings despite scoring over 500 runs in their first innings.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan amassed a formidable 556 runs. However, their bowling attack faltered spectacularly, conceding a staggering 823 runs—only the fourth highest total in Test cricket history. The English side thrived on a record-breaking partnership of 454 runs between Joe Root and Harry Brook, the highest ever for England in Test matches.
This defeat continues a dismal streak for Pakistan, who have now lost six consecutive matches under the captaincy of Shan Masood. The team’s woes began with a 0-3 series defeat against Australia and worsened with a historic 0-2 loss at home to Bangladesh, marking their first-ever Test defeat against the Bangladeshi side. The latest defeat against England places them at a 0-1 deficit in the ongoing three-match series.
Adding to their woes, Pakistan is the only team yet to win a Test match on home soil since 2022. The team has suffered series losses against England, Australia, and Bangladesh, raising questions about their ability to compete at the highest level.
In the aftermath of the match, Shan Masood expressed his disappointment, attributing the loss to the failure of the bowlers to take 10 wickets. "When you put up 550 on the board, it’s crucial to back it up with 10 wickets. England found a way to get those wickets, and we need to do the same," he remarked. He further emphasized the need for his team to adapt to challenging conditions, stating, "No matter how the pitch is, we must find a way to perform consistently."
Despite the loss, Masood remained hopeful about the series, focusing on squad mentality and consistency as they look to rebound in the upcoming matches. "We're hurt by the results, and so is the nation. But we love the game, and we have to find a way forward," he added.
The second Test match of the series is set to commence on October 15 at the same venue.