Pakistan spinner Ali Usman entered the record books on Thursday with a historic five-wicket haul at Headingley.
He became the first overseas spinner since 1972 to take five wickets in a Test innings at the venue.
Usman achieved the milestone on the second day of the rain-affected first Test against England.
Maiden Five-Wicket Haul for Ali Usman
The left-arm spinner delivered an impressive spell as Pakistan looked to fight back.
Usman dismissed Harry Brook, Gus Atkinson, and Ollie Robinson during the final stages of the day.
These wickets helped him complete his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
His performance provided a major boost for Pakistan. However, England still remained in a strong position.
Ends 54-Year Wait at Headingley
Usman’s achievement ended a 54-year wait for an overseas spinner at Headingley.
Australia’s Ashley Mallett was the last visiting spinner to take five wickets in a Test innings at the ground.
Mallett achieved the feat during the 1972 Ashes.
As a result, Usman became part of a rare piece of Headingley Test history.
England Build a Big Lead
Despite Usman’s impressive performance, England continued to dominate the match.
The hosts ended the day on 366-8.
They had built a first-innings lead of 195 runs after dismissing Pakistan for 171.
England resumed their innings on 112-2 after rain delayed the start of play until 2:45pm.
Only 57 overs were possible during the day.
Root and Cox Build Strong Partnership
Joe Root and Jordan Cox strengthened England’s position with a crucial partnership.
The pair added 150 runs for the third wicket.
Root scored 66, while Cox contributed 73.
Their partnership gave England a strong platform after the delayed start.
Brook Falls Short of Another Century
Dan Lawrence later added 51 for England.
He shared a 120-run partnership with Harry Brook for the fifth wicket.
Brook played an aggressive innings and scored 91 from 93 deliveries.
However, Ali Usman dismissed him before he could reach another century at his home ground.
Brook had previously scored 99 against India at Headingley last year.
Pakistan Face Difficult Day Three
England still had two wickets remaining at the end of the second day.
The hosts also held a commanding 195-run advantage.
Therefore, Pakistan will aim to finish England’s innings quickly on day three.
Ali Usman’s historic five-wicket haul has given the visitors a positive moment in a difficult match.
However, Pakistan still face a major challenge as they attempt to recover from England’s strong position.
