Pakistan struggle to recover, trailing by 268 runs in day two

Birmingham, 10 September – The third Test between England and Pakistan at Edgbaston has turned into a one‑sided affair. England posted a massive 453 in their first innings, establishing a 320‑run lead. Pakistan’s modest 133 left them well behind, and by stumps they were 268 runs short of England’s total, having lost two wickets in their second innings.

England are now on the verge of a clean sweep, having already wrapped up the first two Tests by the same 103‑run margin. The hosts will be looking to maintain the pressure and finish the series 3‑0.

After losing the toss, Pakistan’s top order faltered. The team slumped to 48 for five before Saad Shakeel’s gritty 43 and Mohammad Abbas’s 21 lifted the score to 133. Rajallah contributed 11 runs. England’s bowlers exploited the conditions, with Josh Tong taking four wickets, while Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer each removed three batsmen.

England’s reply was anchored by a 104‑run stand between Harry Brook and Emilio after early wickets at 39. Emilio made 60, hitting nine fours, and Brook added 75. Dan Lawrence (65), Jamie Smith (69) and Ollie Robinson (50) also reached fifty, pushing the total beyond 450.

For Pakistan, Rajallah was the standout bowler with four wickets. Mohammad Ali and Mohammad Iman Ranhawa each claimed two, and Mohammad Abbas added one wicket. The visitors began their second innings late, managing only 52 runs for two wickets after 12.4 overs. Early dismissals of Saeed Ayub and Abdullah Shafiq for ducks came at the hands of Ollie Robinson.

Shan Masood tried to steady the chase, adding 52 runs with Azaan Owais, who made 29. Masood remained unbeaten on 21 as the day concluded with Pakistan at 52/2, still far behind England’s first‑innings tally.