England captain Ben Stokes admitted he apologized to his teammates after showing frustration on the field during their second Test loss to Pakistan in Multan.
Stokes was visibly upset after several dropped catches, including by Joe Root, which proved costly as Pakistan secured a 152-run victory.
Stokes was caught on camera using the F-word after Brydon Carse dismissed Salman Ali Agha twice in an over, only for both chances to be missed by wicketkeeper Jamie Smith and Root.
Salman, initially in single digits, went on to score 63 crucial runs, helping Pakistan extend their lead to 296.
Reflecting on his outburst, Stokes said, “No one means to drop catches, but it shows how vital they are in these conditions. I apologized to the group last night because it’s the first time I’ve let my emotions show in my body language as captain.” He added, “I was a tired, grumpy old man last night, but you won’t see that again.”
England, chasing 297 to win, were bowled out for 144, with Noman Ali taking 8/46 and Sajid Khan adding 2 wickets to his first innings haul.
Pakistan’s victory marked their first home Test win in nearly four years, leveling the series. The final Test will take place in Rawalpindi from October 24.