Trescothick scores hundred as Somerset snatch draw
Taunton – July 5, 2016: Play began in fine conditions and blue skies on the last day of the this first three-day game of with Pakistan at 140-4, with a lead having already swelled up to 371.
But Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq relentlessly pushed on, enjoying good batting conditions at Taunton. Going hell for leather, Azhar completed his century at the stroke of noon and Pakistan declared, with Asad Shafiq, the other unbeaten batsman, overnight having stroked his way to 69. By then the score had moved onto 236-4 and the Pakistan’s lead a formidable 467 runs.
Yasir Shar removed Hose for eight immediately before lunch. In perfect batting conditions, post-lunch Trescothick and Rouse then rallied. Yasir Shah was given a lengthy bowl from the Old Pavilion End but Trescothick rolled back the years and accumulated runs steadily. Eventually Yasir trapped Rouse for 41.
Trescothick was then joined by Hildreth and at tea Somerset had progressed to 157-2
After tea Trescothick reached his century off 105 balls and joined Viv Richards in having scored forty seven first class centuries for Somerset.
Rahat Ali finally trapped Trescothick caught behind on 106, which he had scored off 100 balls. He quickly followed this with the wicket of Trego and Somerset had slumped to 191-4. Barrow soon followed them back into the pavilion as he was caught leg before to Sohail Khan.
A change of ends to the River End brought Mohammad Amir good fortune as he trapped Hildreth caught behind for 48.
As the final hour’s play began, Pakistan were now on top and scenting a win.
Fearing defeat Somerset put the shutters up. Yasir Shah broke through Josh Davey’s defences and bowled him. Somerset were now precariously placed at 234-9.
There some close appeals to come from the bowling of Yasir Shah but Somerset clung on and finished at 258-7.
Batting conditions got easier as the game progressed and today proved a good workout for Pakistan’s bowlers.
A good match and a good outing for Pakistan.
Quotes from Azhar Ali’s Post-match Presser ‘Looking forward to Lord’s’
Speaking at the conclusion of the match against Somerset, century maker Azhar Ali commented.
"It was important to spend time in the middle to get runs. As a batting unit we all spent time out there and we all wanted to get a hit.”
He added, “We played very good cricket and looked a confident side. We are looking forward to Lord’s and maintaining these standards.”
“Every department was very good in this game and we’d like that to continue. Amir bowled brilliantly. Yasir Shah bowled in good areas.
Azhar acknowledged it had been a good game.
“Somerset bowled their heart out and we only needed a couple more wickets. We were tested and the meant the bowlers bowled a lot of overs which is important for us.
Azhar said that he was prepared to come on and bowl at the end.
He stated: “Each time I was asked to come on and bowl earlier in the innings a wicket fell. I enjoy bowling especially when I get wickets.
“Today’s was a flat track. The first two days the pitch did a bit but it was playing better today. With overcast conditions it seamed and swung but today was a test.”
Azhar praised Marcus Trescothick’s batting, saying: “He is inspiring in that he continues playing cricket and plays with passion.”
Azhar concluded by stating that the time the team had spent in Somerset had gone well.
He said: “It was brilliant in Somerset. We have had good practice facilities and hospitality. Everyone is fit and raring to have a go."
