Pakistan pacer Razaullah produced a stunning counterattacking display on Test debut to give Pakistan a much-needed boost in their World Test Championship clash against England at Edgbaston.
The 21-year-old walked in at 9 with the score at 312/7 and Pakistan still needing another 8 runs to make England bat again, and went on an assault, smashing 81 from just 63 deliveries.
His nine sixes equalled the record for most sixes by a debutant in a Test innings and helped Pakistan set England a fourth-innings target of 130 after being pushed to the brink.
Razaullah’s approach was one of fearless aggression, particularly against the short ball, as he took on Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue.
“I was being selective with which balls to slog, but they all seemed within range,” he said after the conclusion of Day 3.
“I wanted to take it as deep as possible. I wasn’t scared of pace.
“I wanted to punish the balls from Archer that landed on a hard length.
“There’s nothing to be scared of when you’re playing for your country.
“I was just enjoying myself.”
At Edgbaston, he backed himself against an England attack that had repeatedly troubled Pakistan’s batters during the series, which gave the home side an unassailable 2-0 lead from the opening two Tests.
“My favourite ball [to face] is the short ball. I just believed in myself.
“I thought if I played 50 balls, I’d get a positive result. And thankfully that happened.”
Razaullah’s intent was matched by the enjoyment he displayed at the crease, soaking in the reception as the Edgbaston crowd stood up to commemorate his fighting spirit.
“I enjoyed the standing ovation.
“I like to enjoy life and I was relishing the moment.”
England will begin Day 4 with the bat, needing 130 runs to make it 3-0 in the three-match series.
ICC World Test ChampionshipICC World Test Championship, 2025/27News
