The second day of the first Test between Pakistan and England saw a controversial moment that left fans and players alike debating the umpire’s decision. England’s Chris Woakes seemed to have caught Pakistan’s Agha Salman, but the batter was given ‘not out’ after a detailed review. The decision sparked discussions, with many wondering what led to the final call.

Chris Woakes’ catch and the moment of doubt

Salman was batting on 15 when England’s Jack Leach bowled a flighted delivery around the off-stump, prompting Salman to come down the track for a lofted shot. However, the Pakistani batter mistimed the shot, sending the ball high toward long-off instead of deep into the stands.

Chris Woakes settled under the ball and appeared to take the catch, but as he was backtracking toward the boundary rope, his momentum threatened to carry him beyond the field of play. In an attempt to avoid stepping over the boundary, Woakes threw the ball in the air and hopped back in, completing the catch on a second attempt. However, upon review, it was determined that Woakes’ right foot was still grounded when he first made contact with the ball, meaning he had not yet completed the catch. The decision came down to mere milliseconds, but ultimately, the “benefit of the doubt” was awarded to Salman, as commentator Nasser Hussain noted on air. Umpire Chris Gaffaney ruled in favour of the batter, allowing Salman to continue his innings.

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Following the controversial moment, Salman capitalized on the reprieve and went on to score an impressive century. His unbeaten 104 was instrumental in Pakistan’s dominant batting performance. Salman’s composure and resilience were evident as he anchored the lower order, pushing Pakistan towards a commanding total.

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Pakistan’s batting masterclass

Pakistan’s batting lineup was in full flow during the first innings, amassing a massive total of 556 runs. Apart from Salman, opener Abdullah Shafique and captain Shan Masood also showcased their class, each registering centuries. Shafique displayed great temperament, while Masood led from the front, scoring a brilliant 151 off just 177 deliveries, studded with 13 fours and 2 sixes. Their contributions laid the foundation for Pakistan’s imposing total.

England’s bowlers toiled hard on the field, with each of them managing to take a wicket, but the standout performer was Leach.

Leach, despite the challenging conditions, bowled with discipline and picked up three crucial wickets. However, his efforts couldn’t prevent Pakistan from dominating the innings, as the hosts piled up a formidable score.

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