Pakistan's new star Razaullah produced a dazzling knock to lift the third Test at Edgbaston, meaning England must return for day four instead of taking a Saturday off. The 21-year-old debutant, batting at number nine, made 81 off 63 balls with nine sixes, the joint-most in a Test innings in England, matching Ben Stokes' 155 against Australia in 2023. Razaullah, who has eight first-class matches and one century, broke two bats during his explosive hitting and needed three different bats at the crease. He was selected more as a tearaway fast bowler reminiscent of Waqar Younis, but his batting stole the show.
England's bowlers were thwarted by a Pakistan side that mixed belligerence with brilliance. Shan Masood made 95 and captain Babar Azam added 76. England need 130 runs to win.
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja said on BBC Test Match Special: "It's the first time he's been out there for Pakistan ever, and he absolutely lights up the show. This is the attitude that was needed. Someone with a strong body language and who believes in himself. They'll want him playing all formats because he's a natural in mind, body language and attitude. It was a tremendous fightback."
England captain Joe Root stationed eight fielders on the boundary at one point, but it did not deter Razaullah, who swaggered with the arrogance of youth. Razaullah's nine sixes also matched the total Sir Geoffrey Boycott hit in his 108-Test career.
Source: www.bbc.com — Read the original article
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