England crumbles to 248 as Pakistan’s pace shines

London, 28 August – The second Test between England and Pakistan at Lord’s saw the visitors dictate terms with a potent fast‑bowling display. After electing to bowl first, Pakistan restricted England to 248 runs for the loss of nine wickets.

The English innings began poorly. Emilio Ge was dismissed for eight runs, followed by Ben Duckett’s 17, both victims of Mohammad Abbas. The captain, Joe Root, fell for a low‑scoring four, also bowled by Abbas. Harry Brook added a solitary 15, while Dan Lawrence contributed 17 before being sent back.

A fightback emerged from the middle order. Jordan Cox occupied the crease for 105 balls, scoring 55 with seven fours. Jamie Smith then accelerated, making 61 off 80 balls and striking ten fours. Their 67‑run partnership for the sixth wicket lasted 95 deliveries.

Gus Atkinson supplied quick runs, reaching 34 in just 27 balls with five boundaries. He and Smith combined for a 35‑run partnership for the seventh wicket. Jofra Archer chipped in 14 runs before the day concluded.

Pakistan’s bowlers reaped the payoff. Abbas claimed four wickets for 56 runs, including a clean dismissal of Ollie Robinson without yielding a run. Mohammad Ali added three wickets for 67 runs, and Khurram Shahzad picked up a single wicket. Their disciplined spell left England’s batsmen helpless on day one.