Day Five of the first Test between Pakistan and England is now just a formality © AFP © Getty Images
The first Test between England and Pakistan is well and truly headed towards a draw with England at 549 for 8 on Day Four at Abu Dhabi. Skipper Alastair Cook scored a monumental 263, which helped his side secure a slender 46-run lead in the match. Ian Bell, Joe Root and Ben Stokes scored half-centuries to help their side take the lead. Pakistan had declared their innings at 523 for 8 in their first innings after a Shoaib Malik had scored 245 in his first Test for Pakistan in five years. Asad Shafiq scored a valiant 107 and Mohammad Hafeez scored 98 opening the innings. England have Stuart Broad and Adil rashid at the crease. Live scorecard: Pakistan vs England 2015, 1st Test Day 5 at Abu Dhabi
Cook’s innings was the third longest Test innings in history in terms of duration. He however could not surpass his highest score of 294and fell 31 runs short of it. Wahab Riaz was the best Pakistan bowler as he picked up three wickets. Malik, who was impressive with the bat showed what he can do with ball in hand and picked up two wickets. READ: Alastair Cook’s 263 guides England to 569/8 on Day 4 of 1st Test vs Pakistan
The outcome of the Test is almost clear until and unless something miraculous happen on the ultimate day of the first Test. Both the teams made utmost use of the batting surface and scored runs in plenty. Bowlers had a tough time as there wasn’t any help in the surface. It will be interesting to see how the pitch fares on the final day.