Multan, November 13:

Stand-in captain Marcus Trescothick cracked a robust century as England tightened the screws on Pakistan in the opening Test today.

The left-handed opener scored an unbeaten 135 for his 13th Test hundred to help England post 253-3 in their first innings at stumps on the second day in reply to Pakistan’s 274. Nightwatchman Matthew Hoggard was yet to open his account when bad light stopped play early.

Trescothick put on 180 for the second wicket with Ian Bell (71), who returned to form just when England needed a big partnership to consolidate their position.

Trescothick and Bell pressed home the advantage gained by Andrew Flintoff, who finished with 4-68 to restrict Pakistan. He was supported by Steve Harmison (3-37) and Matthew Hoggard (2-55) as Pakistan lost the last four wickets for 30 runs.

In contrast, the England batting flourished. Trescothick was in control from the beginning, punishing the Pakistani bowlers with a wide range of strokes.