Babar Azam Hits Unbeaten 158 as Pakistan Dominates England in First Test

Babar Azam produced a batting masterclass on Monday, stroking an unbeaten 158 to guide Pakistan to a commanding 387-3 at the close of day two in the first Test against England at the National Stadium in Karachi.

The Pakistan captain was in sublime form throughout his innings, facing 243 balls and striking 18 boundaries in a display of technical excellence and temperament that frustrated England's bowling attack. Azam's knock anchored Pakistan's strong reply to England's first-innings total of 342, putting the hosts in a position of strength.

"I'm really pleased with how I batted today," Azam said at the press conference. "The wicket is playing well for batting, and I tried to be patient and build partnerships. Tomorrow we'll look to extend our lead and put ourselves in a winning position."

Azam found excellent support from Imam-ul-Haq, who contributed a solid 89 before falling to Jack Leach's left-arm spin just before tea. The pair added 187 runs for the third wicket, systematically wearing down England's bowlers on a flat Karachi pitch that offered little assistance to the seamers.

England's bowlers toiled hard in the subcontinental conditions, with James Anderson and Ollie Robinson sharing the three wickets to fall. However, their efforts were undermined by some wayward bowling and dropped chances, including a crucial drop of Azam on 67 by Joe Root at first slip.

With two days remaining and Pakistan holding a 45-run first-innings lead with seven wickets in hand, Azam and his team are well-positioned to take control of this opening Test. The captain's innings has laid the foundation for what could be a decisive advantage, especially if Pakistan can extend their lead beyond 200 runs. England will need early wickets on day three to prevent the game from slipping away in the challenging conditions of Karachi.