DUBAI: Off-spinner Graeme Swann trapped Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul Haq in the penultimate over of the second day to help England fight back in the first Test on Wednesday.
Misbah’s 13th half-century – his 11th in 13 Tests as captain – had kept Pakistan in a good position after openers Mohammad Hafeez had made 88 and Taufiq Umar 58 on a slow turning Dubai Stadium pitch.
But Swann trapped Misbah infront with a sharp incoming delivery and had the not out decision by New Zealand umpire Billy Bowden overturned by the Decision Review System to boost England’s cause.
Misbah had put on a valuable 52 runs for the sixth wicket with wicket-keeper batsman Adnan Akmal, who was unbeaten on a gritty 24.
James Anderson ended the day on a high note for his team when he bowled Abdul Rehman (four) in the last over to leave Pakistan at 288-7 at the close, a lead of 96 over England’s first innings total of 192.
Misbah’s wicket has seemingly brought England back in the match. The Pakistani skipper had hit five boundaries during his 154-ball knock. Before Misbah, Pakistan lost the crucial wicket of Younis Khan (37) on the stroke of tea when the experienced batsman offered no stroke to part-timer Jonathan Trott’s incoming delivery and was adjudged leg-before. (Agencies)
