Shan Masood’s ton at Old Trafford

Pakistan were dealt an early blow on day two of the first Test at Old Trafford as Babar Azam departed in the very first over, getting caught in first slip by Joe Root off the bowling of James Anderson.

Azam, who had looked in sublime touch the prior day, failed to add to his overnight score, falling for 69 as Asad Shafiq walked in.

Shan Masood, who had batted courageously but at a snail’s pace, finally completed his 50. It took him 156 balls to reach the milestone.

Soon, 150 was up for Pakistan as the visitors hoped the pair, their last truly specialist batsmen, would hang on and build the innings towards a respectable first innings total.

However, English bowlers had other plans. Shafiq fell prey to Stuart Broad whereas Mohammad Rizwan was sent packing by Woakes. Both contributed in single figures as Shadab Khan walked in at number seven.


Masood, on the other end, soldiered on. At lunch, Pakistan were 187-5 with the gutsy lefty at 77.

Following lunch, runs flowed a little easier for the duo as Pakistan reached their 200 without any further loss.

Masood’s ton was up soon. The milestone also helped him get to several first-ever achievements. More on that here.