"Exceptional innings by an exceptional talent" - Fans erupt as Saud Shakeel smashes century in 2024 3rd PAK vs ENG Test

Pakistan vice-captain Saud Shakeel produced a fighting knock against England on Day 2 of the ongoing third and final Test in Rawalpindi on Friday, October 25. The left-handed batter brought up his fourth Test ton off 181 balls when the hosts needed a big knock from him.

This was his first century against England. He finally delivered after missing out in Multan (82 in the first Test).

During his knock, Shakeel shared an 88-run partnership with Noman Ali for the eighth wicket to help Pakistan level the score at tea.

Shakeel has gone from strength to strength in his Test career. He has 1379* runs in 15 Tests so far. The 29-year-old has already amassed over 250 runs in the ongoing three-match Test series against England.

Fans on X lauded Shakeel for his gritty knock on a rank-turner. One user wrote:

"This is how you bat on turning tracks against quality spin bowling. Proper masterclass there from Saud."

Another user wrote:

"Exceptional innings by an exceptional talent. Well done Saud Shakeel. Future of Pakistan cricket. Masha Allah"

A third user added:

"What a magnificent fourth Test hundred from Saud Shakeel under pressure. When the team collapsed and wickets kept falling, he stood tall like a true Chota Don and fought through with a gutsy, heroic knock."

Here are a few more reactions:

Saud Shakeel helps Pakistan bounce back against England

A timely century from Saud Shakeel helped Pakistan fight back against England in the third Test.

At Tea on Day 2, the Men in Green are 267/8, with Shakeel (107 off 191) and Sajid Khan (one off four) at the crease. Noman Ali (45 off 84) was the last batter to be dismissed, lbw by Shoaib Bashir. Bashir and Rehan Ahmed have bagged three wickets each for the visitors so far.

Batting first, England were bundled out for 267. Jamie Smith top scored with 89 off 119, hitting six maximums and five boundaries. Ben Duckett and Gus Atkinson also chipped in with 52 (84) and 39 (71), respectively.

Sajid Khan starred with the ball for Pakistan, returning with six wickets, while Noman Ali bagged three. Zahid Mahmood bagged a solitary scalp.

The Test series is currently level at 1-1. England won the first Test by an innings and 47 runs. Pakistan bounced back to win the second game by 152 runs.

Follow the PAK vs ENG 3rd Test live score and updates here.