For Pakistan's cricket fans, the 2021 home series win over England in Rawalpindi felt like a pivotal moment in recent cricket history. It had been over two years since Pakistan had tasted victory in a home Test series, and for a team rich in cricketing tradition, this wait felt long and overdue. With this victory, Pakistan not only ended that wait but did so in a fashion that sent a clear message about their resilience and strategic prowess.

Pakistan's nine-wicket win on day three of the third and final Test at Rawalpindi capped a series marked by hard-fought battles, tactical adjustments, and stellar individual performances. The comeback from a 1-0 series deficit to claim a 2-1 series victory was the first instance of Pakistan overturning a series at home after falling behind. The performances of Noman Ali and Sajid Khan were instrumental in Pakistan's resurgence, both bowlers showcasing their skill and turning the series on its head. This article delves into the game-changing moments and strategies that led to this memorable series win.

Building Momentum: Series at a Glance

The series started with a challenging opening match where England secured a dominant victory by an innings. However, Pakistan regrouped and executed a well-strategized comeback, especially in the second Test held at Multan, where Noman and Sajid's bowling laid the groundwork for a Pakistan victory. By the time the series returned to Rawalpindi for the third Test, Pakistan had equalized, but the stakes were high as both teams vied for the series decider.

Rawalpindi, known for its slow, batter-friendly pitches, set the stage for a tactical battle. England's plan centered around maintaining aggressive scoring, while Pakistan leaned heavily on its spinners, Noman and Sajid, to make breakthroughs. By the end of the series, Pakistan had proven that their ability to read conditions and adjust their strategy was second to none.

Match Overview: Rawalpindi Decider

First Innings Highlights

• Pakistan set the pace in their first innings with an impressive total of 344 runs. Saud Shakeel anchored the innings with a career-defining 134, ably supported by Sajid Khan (48*) and Noman Ali (45), pushing the score to a strong position.
• England's bowlers, led by Rehan Ahmed (4-66) and Shoaib Bashir (3-129), managed to keep Pakistan under 350 but faced the challenge of tackling the Pakistan spin attack in response.

England’s Struggles Against Spin

• England managed 267 in response, with Jamie Smith (89) and Ben Duckett (52) providing valuable runs. However, they were unable to withstand Sajid and Noman’s spin assault. Sajid’s remarkable 6-128 dismantled England’s lineup, while Noman’s support with 3-88 kept England in check.
• This initial bowling display set the tone for what would be a spin-dominated match.

Second Innings Collapse

• The second innings witnessed one of the most remarkable collapses of the series. England, starting at 24 for 3, had hoped to put up a substantial lead to challenge Pakistan. However, they were bowled out for 112, with Noman (6-42) and Sajid (4-69) showcasing masterful spin bowling.
• With key wickets falling quickly, including Joe Root for 33, England lost their remaining seven wickets for just 46 runs. Noman Ali's tactical approach and Sajid’s precision left England with minimal resistance.

A Swift Chase for Victory

• Set a target of 36, Pakistan lost an early wicket but sailed to victory with Shan Masood hitting 23 off six balls. Masood's aggressive approach, highlighted by consecutive fours against Jack Leach and a towering six to seal the win, brought Pakistan’s first series victory as captain for Masood.

Key Players and Turning Points

Noman Ali: The Veteran Spinner’s Excellence

Noman’s contribution with the ball was central to Pakistan’s dominance. His six-wicket haul in the second innings was crucial in restricting England's score and seizing control of the game. With flight, drift, and variations in pace, he induced England’s batters to make crucial errors.

Sajid Khan’s Vital Role in the Series

Sajid Khan ended the series with a 10-wicket haul across both innings, showcasing his accuracy and ability to exploit the Rawalpindi pitch. His 6-128 in the first innings was critical in minimizing England’s first-innings score, while his economical and precise deliveries ensured Pakistan’s upper hand.

Shan Masood’s Captaincy and Performance

Masood’s aggressive, no-nonsense approach in the final chase exemplified his growth as a leader. Having started his captaincy with six consecutive losses, Masood displayed resilience and determination that resonated with fans and teammates alike.

Strategic Adjustments and Tactical Mastery

Pakistan’s spinners were the centerpiece of their strategy throughout the series. The decision to bring in Sajid and Noman after the first Test proved to be the game-changing factor that not only leveled the series but allowed Pakistan to secure a decisive victory.

Pitch Selection and Conditions

• Understanding the Rawalpindi pitch conditions, Pakistan’s management opted for a spin-heavy approach, a tactic that capitalized on England’s vulnerability to spin in subcontinental conditions. Noman and Sajid's inclusion highlighted this adaptability.

Bowling Tactics: Attacking the Tail

• Pakistan’s approach to target England's lower order with relentless spin bowling proved effective. England's inability to build partnerships from the middle to lower order underscored their difficulty in adapting to the spin-friendly conditions.

Strategic Batting Partnerships

• Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially in the first innings, showed resilience against England’s pace and spin attack. Saud Shakeel’s patient century and the crucial contributions from Noman and Sajid with the bat created a stable foundation that allowed Pakistan’s bowlers room to attack.

Impact on Pakistan’s Future in Test Cricket

This series victory has significant implications for Pakistan’s standing in world cricket. After a period of inconsistent results and a struggling Test record at home, this series win has re-established Pakistan as a formidable force on their own turf. Moreover, the win signals a successful generational shift in Pakistan’s spin bowling, with Noman and Sajid poised to lead Pakistan’s bowling attack in upcoming series.

Rise of Spin Talent

• Noman Ali and Sajid Khan’s performances have rejuvenated Pakistan’s spin legacy, filling the void left by past legends. Their development bodes well for Pakistan’s spin reserves, especially given the subcontinent’s reliance on spin-friendly pitches.

Renewed Fan Support and Morale

• For fans, this victory has rekindled enthusiasm for Test cricket in Pakistan. The cricketing community’s support and the renewed confidence of the players could translate into stronger performances in future home and away series.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Pakistan Cricket?

The win against England is more than just a series victory; it represents Pakistan’s resilience and growth under pressure. Moving forward, the Pakistani team will aim to capitalize on this momentum as they prepare for future international tours and home series. The young talents emerging in Pakistan’s domestic cricket scene, coupled with experienced players, promise a balanced squad that can tackle both spin-friendly and pace-dominated conditions.

This series also demonstrated that Pakistan’s approach to adaptability and their strategic use of conditions can yield high dividends. As Pakistan continues to develop its cricketing infrastructure and nurture young talent, this series win may mark the beginning of a successful era in Pakistan’s cricketing journey.

Pakistan’s victory over England in the Rawalpindi Test has become an inspiring tale of resilience, strategy, and the undying spirit of Pakistani cricket. With Noman and Sajid’s rise as potent spinners, Shan Masood’s steady leadership, and an unwavering home crowd, Pakistan’s cricket revival is here to stay. This win isn’t just a victory it’s a signal that Pakistan is ready to reclaim its spot among the top cricketing nations.