Ali Usman Creates History as Pakistan Spinner Shines at Headingley

Leeds: Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Ali Usman delivered a memorable performance on Day 3 of the first Test against England at Headingley, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul in England despite the hosts taking a commanding 238-run first-innings lead.

England, who resumed the day at 366/8, were eventually bowled out for 409 in 89.5 overs. Their lower order added 43 valuable runs, with Jofra Archer contributing an unbeaten 23 to push England’s advantage further after Pakistan had been dismissed for just 171 in their first innings.

Usman was Pakistan’s standout bowler, finishing with impressive figures of 5/95 from 24 overs. His five-wicket haul also earned him a place in the record books.

The spinner became the first visiting left-arm spinner since Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan in 2010 to claim a five-wicket haul in a Test innings in England. He also became the first visiting spinner to take five wickets at Headingley since Australia’s Ashley Mallett achieved the feat with 5/114 in 1972.

Usman strikes at crucial moments

Usman played a key role in preventing England from extending their total even further. He removed several of the hosts’ important batters, including Jordan Cox (73), Harry Brook (91), Dan Lawrence (51), Gus Atkinson (3) and Ollie Robinson (0).

Brook was England’s leading scorer with 91, while Cox and Lawrence also registered valuable half-centuries. Usman’s ability to break important partnerships proved crucial as Pakistan fought to contain England’s lower order.

Archer provides late resistance

England’s lower order once again made a significant contribution. Jofra Archer remained unbeaten on 23 off 25 balls, striking two fours and a six as England moved beyond the 400-run mark.

Jamie Smith made 25 before he was dismissed by Khurram Shahzad, while Josh Tongue was the final England batter to fall, bowled by Khurram for 8.

Khurram Shahzad finished with 3/133, while Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali claimed one wicket each.

Pakistan face uphill battle

Despite Usman’s historic five-wicket haul, Pakistan remain in a difficult position after their first-innings collapse for 171. England’s 409 gives them a substantial 238-run lead, putting Pakistan under significant pressure in the remainder of the Test.

For Usman, however, the performance represents a major personal milestone. His five-wicket haul not only gave Pakistan a much-needed boost but also placed his name alongside some of the visiting spinners who have made an impact in England’s Test history.

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