LONDON: England were bowled out for 290 in their first innings on the second day of the Lord’s Test, with Pakistan beginning their reply at 81-4 after 28 overs.
England resumed play at 248-9 after bad light brought the opening day to an early close. Gus Atkinson added to England’s total before being dismissed for 45 by Ali Usman, while Josh Tong remained unbeaten on 30.
Jamie Smith was England’s top scorer with 61, while Jordan Cox made 55. Atkinson contributed 45, with Ben Duckett and Dan Lawrence scoring 17 each.
For Pakistan, Mohammad Abbas was the standout bowler, taking four wickets, while Mohammad Ali claimed three. Salman Ali Agha also took an impressive catch at slip.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam had won the toss and elected to bowl first, with the visitors’ bowlers maintaining pressure on England throughout the innings.
Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, with Babar returning in place of Salman Ali Agha, who had captained the team in the Leeds Test. England won that match by an innings and 103 runs.
Meanwhile, Pakistan opening batter Imam-ul-Haq suffered a calf strain on the opening day of the Test against England, with his further participation in the match dependent on his recovery, the Pakistan Cricket Board said.
More read, Imam-ul-Haq’s further participation in England Test hinges on fitness
The PCB said scans confirmed a low-grade calf strain and that the team’s medical staff was monitoring the batter. A decision on whether Imam will continue in the Test will be made based on his fitness and recovery.
