In Rawalpindi, Pakistan secured a thrilling nine-wicket victory over England in the third Test, wrapping up the series 2-1 within just three days.

Spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan proved unstoppable, taking all 20 wickets in the previous match to level the series. Their impact continued on a dry, spinning pitch where they shared 19 wickets, leading Pakistan to dismiss England for just 112 runs on Day Three, the lowest total England has ever recorded in Pakistan.

Pakistan gained a solid 77-run lead after the first innings and chased down the remaining runs with a score of 37-1 just before lunch, marking their first home series win since 2021.

Captain Shan Masood, who ended a six-game losing streak with this victory, capped off the win with a six. He praised his team’s resilience and credited their efforts to Pakistani fans, saying, “This win is special for us. It’s about character.”

England’s batting lineup crumbled against Noman and Sajid. Noman took 6-42 in the second innings, adding to his three earlier wickets, while Sajid claimed 4-69 to add to his six-wicket haul in the first innings. England’s inability to cope with the bounce and spin cost them dearly.

Captain Ben Stokes, who missed the first Test due to injury, acknowledged the challenge his team faced. “Pakistan deserves credit,” he said. “We encountered difficult conditions and couldn’t overcome them.”

Starting the day at 24-3, England briefly resisted through Joe Root (33) and Harry Brook (26), reducing Pakistan’s lead to 11 runs before losing a series of quick wickets. England’s middle and lower order struggled, and the team ultimately fell to 6-75, with the tailenders soon succumbing to Pakistan’s spin attack.

For Pakistan, this series win is a well-earned redemption after a challenging period. The team, under pressure following a series of defeats, celebrated this win for their fans, with Masood stating, “We dedicate this to the people of Pakistan. We hope it brings them joy and fills stadiums again.”