England resumed on 492-3 in Multan, 64 runs behind Pakistan's first innings total and looking to accelerate following a near-perfect day yesterday (October 9). Pakistan endured a tough day's toil in the field on day three, taking only two wickets throughout the day and were unable to break Harry Brook and Joe Root's monstrous fourth wicket partnership.

With early wickets critical to bringing the game back into their favour on day four, Abrar's absence from the bowling attack is a significant blow. He has bowled the most overs of anyone in the Pakistan bowling attack so far, getting through 31 overs on day three. Abrar is reportedly suffering with fever and as such is unlikely to be available to take the field for the rest of the day.

"Bowling options for Pakistan are limited today. Abrar Ahmed has been hospitalized. He's suffering from a fever. ": Ramiz Raja on air 🗣️#PAKvsENG pic.twitter.com/BR5uPpUEj8

— PakPassion.net (@PakPassion) October 10, 2024

In his absence, Pakistan will have to rely on a combination of Salman Agha, Saud Shakeel and Saim Ayub for their spin attack. They have so far been given a total of nine overs between them in England's innings and all conceded more than five runs an over.

Pakistan's seamers began proceedings in the morning session and found some movement early on. Naseem Shah drew a chance off Root in the fourth over of the morning, Root attempting to pull but hitting it straight to Babar Azam at mid-wicket. Despite the chance being a straightforward one, Babar put it down, allowing Root to continue batting.

England crossed the 500-runs mark early in the session, with Root and Brook's partnership also crossing the 250-run mark.

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