Pakistan vs England: Ben Duckett slams his maiden Test century
England opener Ben Duckett has slammed his maiden century in Test cricket. The 28-year-old reached the three-figure mark on Day 1 of the 1st Test against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Duckett, who registered his maiden international century, got to the mark in just 105 deliveries. The left-handed batter, along with opening partner Zak Crawley, added over 200 runs in just 31 overs.
1,000 FC runs in 2022
Duckett brought up his maiden Test century in his fifth match. Duckett, who was in line to partner Crawley at the top, touched the 200-run mark in Test cricket. The former also completed 1,000 runs in First-Class cricket in 2022. He has an average of over 70, his best in a FC season. Duckett made his FC debut in May 2018.
An incredible double-century stand
Duckett and Crawley absolutely crushed the Pakistan bowlers electing to bat in Rawalpindi. They touched the 100-run mark in just the 14th over. Only 16 overs later, the duo completed its partnership of 200 runs. At that time, England had struck 31 fours.
A record-breaking partnership
Duckett and Crawley scripted history by becoming the first England pair to add 200 or more runs for the opening wicket against Pakistan in Tests. They also became the second visiting opening pair to be involved in a double-century partnership on Pakistan soil. The duo joined India's iconic pair of Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag, who added 410 runs in January 2006.
Duckett returns after five years
Duckett now has 217 runs from five Tests at an average of 27.12. The tally includes one century and half-century. Before this match, Duckett played his last Test in 2016 (against India). He was dropped in 2017 during the Ashes after pouring a drink over James Anderson. Duckett has finally justified his selection with a ton in Pakistan.
How did Day 1 pan out?
England were at their sublime best as they floored Pakistan. The visitors played an aggressive brand of cricket which has become a recurrence under head coach Brendon McCullum. England posted 506/4 (75 overs), riding on centuries from Crawley, Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook. Pakistan bowlers struggled throughout the day. Once Duckett was dismissed, Pakistan had some joy, dismissing Crawley and then Joe Root.
