England have set Pakistan a challenging target of 389 runs to win the second Test of the three-match series at Lord’s on Sunday. The hosts resumed their second innings on the third day at 177 for seven but were eventually bowled out for 208, leaving Pakistan with a demanding chase to level the series.
Dan Lawrence was the top scorer for England with 54 runs, supported by Harry Brook who added 34. Emilio Gay contributed 31 runs, while Jordan Cox managed 11. Pakistan’s bowling unit maintained pressure throughout England’s innings, led by Mohammad Abbas, who took five wickets in the second innings. Mohammad Ali and Khurram Shahzad also made important breakthroughs, claiming two wickets each.
Earlier, Abbas had taken four wickets in England’s first innings, bringing his match tally to nine wickets. England were dismissed for 290 in their first innings, thanks to a disciplined bowling effort from Pakistan.
Pakistan’s batting, however, faltered under England’s bowling attack, being dismissed for a mere 110 runs in their first innings. Aizaan Awais was the lone standout with 46 runs, while Saud Shakeel scored 16 and captain Babar Azam managed eight. England’s bowlers dominated, with Ollie Robinson taking four wickets and Jofra Archer claiming three.
Currently, England lead the series 1-0 after a commanding innings-and-103-run victory in the opening Test held in Leeds. The second Test at Lord’s thus presents an opportunity for Pakistan to bounce back, but the 389-run target will be a significant challenge.
Playing XI for Pakistan includes Shan Masood, Azam Awais, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (captain), Saud Shakeel, Imma-ul-Haq, Muhammad Rizwan, Ali Usman, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, and Mohammad Abbas.
England’s lineup features Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox, Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook, Dan Lawrence, Jamie Smith, Gus Atkinson, Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer, and Josh Tongue.
