New Delhi, Oct 15 (IANS) Pakistan’s debutant Kamran Ghulam made an unforgettable impact in the second Test against England on October 12, steering his team out of early trouble with a resilient century. Former England captain Nasser Hussain praised Ghulam’s performance, likening the 29-year-old’s style to that of Australia’s Steve Smith.
Coming into the side as a replacement for Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam, Ghulam rose to the occasion on his Test debut, producing a crucial 118 off 224 balls. His composed innings was the backbone of Pakistan’s recovery after they stumbled to 19 for 2 early on. By stumps on Day 1, Ghulam’s determined hundred had guided Pakistan to 259 for 5, putting the team back on track in Multan.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Hussain lauded Ghulam’s ability to adapt to the tricky conditions and expertly navigate England’s bowling attack. “He had to wait his turn. He's been scoring prolific runs in the last three years. He got the right balance between attack and defence,” Hussain said, highlighting Ghulam’s poise at the crease.
What stood out for Hussain was Ghulam’s "swagger," as he masterfully switched between attacking strokes and defensive resilience. He also noted similarities between Ghulam’s defensive technique and Steve Smith’s, especially when using his feet and charging down the pitch. “He's got a bit of Steve Smith about him when he defends the ball and charges. He's got a bit of swagger about him," Hussain added.
Known for his prowess against spin in domestic cricket, Ghulam handled England’s spinner Jack Leach, who had earlier dismissed Pakistan’s openers, with composure. His partnership with fellow batter Saim Ayub, worth 149 runs, was vital in stabilising Pakistan’s innings. Ayub contributed a solid 77 before falling to Matthew Potts, but by then, the duo had laid a strong foundation.
Ghulam’s century came off 192 balls, a gritty effort that not only steadied Pakistan’s ship but also showcased his mental toughness and technical skill. His composed innings featured 11 boundaries and a six, and his ability to rotate the strike kept the pressure off the other end.
--IANS
hs/
You may also like
Oman authorities rescue people trapped in vehicles, house amid flooded valleys
EastEnders 'gives away' how Cindy and Junior will be exposed - but it's not Freddie
Everything there is to know about Ricky Tomlinson's life from early career and prison time to tragic death
'Hope He's Ok': Harris Reacts To Trump Awkwardly Swaying To 'Time To Say Goodbye' At Town Hall
Prince Louis dream job revealed as he wants to follow in Prince William's footsteps
MAFS UK fans demand rule change as they fume 'it's so cruel' watching couple's stay
Adrian Larsson leads Tommy Fleetwood International Pathway Series with a stunning seven-under round
Thomas Tuchel's compensation package clarified as England appoint ex-Bayern Munich boss
Emmerdale fans 'work out' who's returning for Zak Dingle's funeral - and it's not Debbie
King Charles beams as he's presented with hand-knitted treats for special occasion
Abhishek's family members had suddenly reached Aishwarya's house to stop
Keir Starmer met Taylor Swift at London gig as row rumbles on over VIP security
Prince William makes joke about home life and parenting as he is handed new gift
You can also save up to 60 thousand rupees in this car
Cipla, Alkem Laboratories in final lap to buy SMT
EU's frantic bid to tackle illegal immigration with familiar-sounding 'return hubs'
BJP central panel meets to decide names for Jharkhand
Rafael Nadal repeated retirement message he said five years ago in past hint over future
Explained: Why India Need 3-0 Win VS New Zealand Despite Holding Top Spot To Reach WTC 2025 Final
Maharashtra Government Launches 'Mukhyamantri Vayo Shri Scheme' For Senior Citizens, Over 4.12 Lakh Beneficiaries Enrolled