Leg-spinner Ish Sodhi registered his first five-wicket haul Friday as New Zealand pressed for victory over Pakistan in the first Test in Karachi.

Advertisement

The 30-year-old, playing his first Test in four years, turned the match in New Zealand's favour with three wickets in the post-lunch session to leave Pakistan on 249-7 at tea on the fifth and final day.

Advertisement

Trying to avoid a fifth consecutive Test defeat at home, Pakistan led by just 75 runs with three wickets remaining and 35 overs left to play.

Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Wasim were on 23 and 20 respectively at the break, putting on a fighting 43 runs for the eighth wicket.

Sodhi took advantage of a weary last-day National Stadium pitch with figures of 5-66.

He dismissed Sarfaraz Ahmed (53), Agha Salman (six) and Imam-ul-Haq (96) in the space of 27 balls for the addition of just 21 runs.

Advertisement

Haq and Sarfaraz had added a defiant 85 runs for the fifth wicket and raised hopes of salvaging a draw for the home team before Sodhi struck.

He had Sarfaraz caught behind, bowled Salman, then got Haq stumped to leave Pakistan on 206-7.

Haq, who survived lbw referrals off the bowler on 58 and 74, cracked 10 boundaries and a six in his sixth half-century, while Sarfaraz had seven hits to the rope.

Advertisement

So incensed was he by his dismissal, Haq smashed a chair with his bat on the way to the dressing room.

Resuming on 77-2, Pakistan lost nightwatchman Nauman Ali early, trapped leg-before by spinner Michael Bracewell.

Also Read: SA20, 2023 - Squads & Schedule

Advertisement

Then skipper Babar Azam -- who scored 161 in Pakistan's first innings of 438 -- was out the same way to Sodhi for 14.
 

About the Author

AFP News
Agence France-Presse (AFP) - Global News Leader AFP News: Agence France-Presse (AFP) is a world-renowned international news agency delivering real-time, accurate, and unbiased news coverage across politics, business, sports, technology, and global affairs. Founded in 1835, AFP operates in 151 countries, providing breaking news, investigative journalism, and multimedia content in multiple languages. With a vast network of correspondents, AFP ensures fast, verified, and high-quality news reporting, making it a trusted source for media, businesses, and governments worldwide. Stay updated with global headlines, exclusive reports, and in-depth analysis Read More
Latest Cricket News