Aloss against England in Rawalpindi late on day five has dented Pakistan's hopes of making the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23 final.

Pakistan were placed mid-table (No.5) in the ICC World Test Championship standings, but had a realistic chance of making the final because of the five home Tests against England and New Zealand.

However, a nervy batting performance late on the final day meant they conceded the Test from a position of strength earlier on.

While England are hardly in contention to reach the final of the WTC, the loss is a significant blow to Pakistan.

Wins for Australia and India in their respective series' would see Pakistan miss out.

Pakistan's loss also puts India in control to reach the WTC final given that they can now secure their place even if they lose one of the Tests against Australia at home, provided they sweep Bangladesh.

If Australia win the remaining Test against West Indies and at least two Tests against South Africa, they would still be well placed to make the final.

On 156/3 at the stroke of lunch, Pakistan seemed in control and ready to push for a win. However, Anderson produced the breakthrough at a crunch time to all but seal the fate of the Test.

Tags :World Test Championship 2023England tour of Pakistan