Pakistan take control of third Test against England

Younis Khan crafted a majestic century as Pakistan assumed a stranglehold on the third Test against England in Dubai.

England's Graeme Swann hits out during the morning session against Pakistan in Dubai.

DUBAI // Younis Khan crafted a majestic century as Pakistan assumed a stranglehold on the third Test against England.

The former captain ended the day 115 not out. His 194 run stand with Azhar Ali (75) meant Pakistan closed with a lead of 180 at 220-2, as they closed in on a first series whitewash against England.

The solidity of the Pakistan duo halted the slide in a Test match which seemed to be heading towards a premature terminus in the morning, after six more wickets fell in the first session of day two.

England were undone by Abdur Rehman again. The left-arm spinner added five wickets to the six he took in Abu Dhabi, as Pakistan restricted England to a 42 run lead on first innings.

Andrew Strauss, England's captain, became the first player to pass 50 in the match, but would have hoped he could have laid the platform for a more impressive lead.

Faced with a fired-up James Anderson, Pakistan limped to 30 for two by lunch, but they are now threatening to build an imposing target thanks to the alliance between Younis and Ali.

Follow @PaulRadley for live updates from Dubai.

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Audio: Younus Khan talks about his century at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

(Audio courtesy of Dubai Sports City and @DxbSportsCity)