Pakistan suffered a disastrous start to their second innings against England in the third and final Test at Edgbaston, losing two batters without adding a run in the opening over.
The early collapse increased the pressure on Pakistan after England had already built a huge first-innings advantage on the second day of the Test. England were bowled out for 453 after Pakistan had managed only 133 in their first innings, giving the hosts a commanding lead of 320 runs.
Pakistan therefore began their second innings needing 320 runs simply to make England bat again.
The situation continued Pakistan’s batting problems throughout the three-match Test series in England.
England build huge lead
Earlier, England resumed their first innings on 156 for four after finishing the opening day 23 runs ahead of Pakistan.
Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence strengthened England’s position with important contributions. Brook made 75, while Lawrence scored 65 as England continued to increase their advantage. The lower order also added valuable runs before England were eventually dismissed for 453.
Pakistan’s young fast bowler Razaullah was one of the few positives for the visitors. He made his Test debut, finished with four wickets. He had already impressed on the opening day by dismissing England captain Joe Root and Emilio Gay.
Pakistan batting under pressure
Pakistan’s problems began in their first innings after England won the toss and elected to bowl. The tourists slipped to 26 for four before being dismissed for only 133 in 33.5 overs.
Saud Shakeel was Pakistan’s leading scorer with 43. Josh Tongue took four wickets for England, while Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer claimed three wickets each.
The latest collapse has left Pakistan facing the possibility of another heavy defeat.
England have already secured the three-match series. They won the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs before beating Pakistan by 194 runs at Lord’s to take an unassailable 2-0 lead.
Pakistan now face a major challenge to avoid an innings defeat and prevent England from completing a 3-0 series whitewash.