Abbas shines as Pakistan rattle England at Lord’s
News Desk
London: Pakistan turned the pressure on England at Lord’s on the opening day of the second Test, with their pace attack exploiting the overcast conditions to leave the hosts struggling at 248 for nine by tea.
Mohammad Abbas spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling effort with four wickets, while Mohammad Ali added three as England’s top order failed to capitalize on winning the toss and being sent in to bat.
The hosts’ innings began with a dramatic collapse. Emily Guy was caught behind for eight before Ben Duckett followed for 17. England captain Joe Root then departed for only four, all three wickets falling to Abbas as England slipped to 36 for three.
Harry Brook and Jordan Cox briefly halted the slide, putting together a 41-run stand. But Brook’s dismissal for 15, bowled by Mohammad Ali, left England five wickets down for 120 after Dean Lawrence was run out for 17.
Cox and Jamie Smith then produced England’s strongest response of the day. The pair added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, with both batters reaching half-centuries and dragging England away from further danger.
Cox made a fighting 55, including seven boundaries, before Khurram Shahzad ended his innings at 187. Smith continued the recovery with 61 off 10 fours but was bowled by Mohammad Ali when England reached 222.
Pakistan quickly regained control. Ollie Robinson was bowled for a duck by Ali, while Jofra Archer was removed by Abbas for 14, leaving England nine wickets down.
At tea, Gus Atkinson was unbeaten on 34 alongside Josh Tong on one. England’s total stood at 248 for nine, leaving the final wicket as the immediate target for Pakistan.
Abbas finished the session with four wickets and Ali three, while Shahzad claimed one. The remaining dismissal came through a run-out.
The day had already begun under disruption, with rain delaying the toss. Once play began, Pakistan captain Babar Azam opted to bowl first, backing his attack to exploit the grass-covered surface and cloudy conditions. Babar also returned to the playing XI, replacing Salman Ali Agha.
England made no changes to their side, with Root saying he too would have preferred to bowl first but believed the pitch offered enough for his batsmen.
The contest carries added importance for Pakistan, who are attempting to draw level after England won the opening Test in Leeds by an innings and 103 runs.
Pakistan are also seeking their first Test series victory in England since 1996, when Wasim Akram’s side won the three-match series 2-1.
With England nine wickets down, Pakistan have put themselves in a strong position to dictate the remainder of the opening day and build the momentum required to fight back in the series.
