Pakistani batsman Kamran Ghulam has made a remarkable impact in the second Test match being held in Multan. With an outstanding century under pressure, Ghulam scored 118 runs in the first innings, showcasing four key skills that pose a significant threat to star player Babar Azam. These attributes highlight how Ghulam may excel in areas where Babar seems to struggle. Let’s delve deeper into what makes Kamran Ghulam a standout player in this match.
Ability to Attack from the Get-Go
When Kamran Ghulam stepped onto the field, Pakistan was in a precarious situation with two wickets already down. At this critical juncture, he didn’t hesitate to showcase his attacking mindset. Unlike Babar Azam, who tends to be more cautious at the crease, Ghulam dove straight into the assault, taking the initiative against the opposition’s bowlers. This proactive approach is essential, especially in Test cricket, where periods of careful play can lead to crucial breakthroughs for the bowlers. Kamran’s fearless entry into the game is distinctly different from Babar’s cautious style, marking him as a player to watch.
Dominance Against Spin Bowlers
One of Kamran Ghulam’s strongest attributes is his ability to counter spin bowlers effectively. The pitch at Multan was dry and provided considerable assistance to spinners, with England’s Jack Leach claiming two early wickets. However, Ghulam didn’t let the spin bowlers gain the upper hand. He skillfully played both Leach and Bashir, demonstrating solid defensive techniques while also aggressively targeting their deliveries. This skill set not only helped stabilize the innings but also showcased his understanding of the game, often a quality that is a hallmark of top-tier batsmen.
Exceptional Use of the Slog Sweep
In the first innings of the Multan Test, Kamran Ghulam delivered a scintillating performance with the slog sweep. This shot played a vital role in him reaching his century, exemplifying a level of confidence rarely seen in players. Remarkably, he executed this shot while nearing his 100, demonstrating not only skill but also fearlessness. Such shots are often avoided by many batsmen, including top players like Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, making Ghulam’s execution more impressive. The slog sweep is particularly effective in disrupting the lines and lengths of spinners, proving to be a game-changer during crucial moments.
Mastery of the Third Man Area
Throughout his century, Kamran Ghulam proved adept at scoring runs in the third man area. This skill requires the ability to play late, allowing a batsman to capitalize on width. England’s captain, Ben Stokes, attempted to target Ghulam with deliveries outside off-stump, but Ghulam’s technique and awareness left Stokes frustrated as he continually found ways to score runs in this region. The ability to position himself effectively for deliveries and exploit gaps is a testament to his batting acumen. In Test cricket, a batsman who can manage their fourth stump line is often more adept at playing longer innings, which was beautifully illustrated by Kamran Ghulam in his debut Test innings.
