Younis Khan hit century and Azhar Ali scored a half century to help Pakistan reach 222 for 2 against England at stumps on the second day of the third and final test at Dubai.
Pakistan now lead 180 runs in the match. Resuming the innings at the overnight score of 104 for 6 England were bowled out for 141 as Abdul Rehman took his second five-wicket haul. England lost Nightwatchman Anderson in the first over of the day when he missed a sharp turning delivery from Rehman and was bowled. Two overs later, Rehman’s spin partner Saeed Ajmal trapped Stuart broad and after Strauss’s fall wrapped up the innings when Swann was caught in the deep. Abdul Rehman took 5 wickets while Saeed Ajmal grabbed three and Umar Gul got two wickets. Pakistan had a shaky start in the second innings and lost both openers for 28 runs. Paceman James Anderson again gave England an early breakthrough, forcing an edge off Umar. Hafeez fell leg-before to the Monty Panesar after scoring 21 runs. Younis Khan and Azhar Ali then stabilised the innings and took Pakistan towards a healthy lead. Younis, Pakistan’s most experienced batsman, held the Innings together with youngster Ali as the pair added 194 for an unbroken third wicket stand as bowlers found it hard to penetrate on an eased out Dubai stadium pitch. Younis completed his 20th career century while Azhar Ali scored his half century. Both Younis and Ali batted with resolve as England failed to make further inroads. Younis Khan on 115 and Azhar Ali on 75 were at the crease when the Stuymps were drawn on the second day.
