[Watch] Ben Duckett Heartbroken As Aamir Jamal's Ripper Traps Him Plumb In Front
Ben Duckett departs [Source: @TheRealPCB/X.com]
England’s star batter Ben Duckett has been in phenomenal form, consistently showcasing his prowess in Test cricket. His recent performance against Pakistan in Multan further cemented his reputation as one of England’s best Test batters. During the first Test match, Duckett’s brilliance was on full display as he smashed a 84 runs, playing a key role in England’s solid batting lineup.
In an unusual turn of events, Duckett wasn’t seen opening for England after Pakistan posted a massive 556 runs in their first innings. The reason? A freak incident during Pakistan’s first innings. England’s part-time off-spinner Joe Root bowled a short-pitched delivery to Pakistan’s No.11, Abrar Ahmed. The ball rocketed towards Ben Duckett at slip, but it was too quick for him to react. The ball ricocheted off Duckett’s left thumb, but he completed the catch with his right hand. Though he pulled off the catch, the impact left Duckett unable to open the batting.
Ben Duckett Gets Applause For His Bravery
With Duckett sidelined temporarily, Ollie Pope took the opener’s role alongside Zak Crawley. Pope, who was also leading the side in Ben Stokes’ absence, balanced the responsibilities of captaincy and opening the innings. Ollie Pope departed for 2-ball duck, however Crawley gave a solid start, contributing 78 runs.
It wasn’t until Day 3 that Duckett rejoined the action. After Crawley’s departure, Duckett walked out with clear intent, attacking from the get-go. His aggressive approach kept the scoreboard ticking and pushed Pakistan on the back foot. Duckett’s stroke play was exquisite, and alongside Joe Root, who had already topped the charts for the most runs in Test cricket for England during the match, the duo entertained the crowd with a masterclass in batting.
However, his innings were cut short in the 50th when Aamir Jamal bowled a good-length delivery angled back into the middle stump. Duckett was caught on the crease, looking to tuck it across the line and the ball angled back past the inside edge and hit the left-handed on the back knee. With this delivery, Pakistan appealed for an LBW, and the umpire raised his finger and declared out.
However, Root was not satisfied. He advised Duckett to take a review, which showed no bat was involved; three reds as it was hitting the top of the leg stump, and Duckett, who needed just 16 runs to score his century, departed scoring 84 off 75.
Aamir Jamal provided a breakthrough by ending the 109-run partnership between Duckett and Joe Root. At the time of writing, England are at 256 for 3 in 50 overs, with Harry Brook and Joe Root at the crease.