LONDON: England have set Pakistan a challenging target of 389 runs in the second Test of the three-match series at Lord’s after being bowled out for 208 in their second innings.
England resumed their unfinished second innings on the fourth day at 177 for seven. However, Pakistan’s bowlers quickly wrapped up the innings, with the hosts adding only 31 more runs before losing their remaining three wickets.
Dan Lawrence top-scored for England with 54 runs, while Harry Brook contributed 34. The pair provided valuable resistance as England looked to build a competitive lead and put Pakistan under pressure in the fourth innings.
Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas was the standout performer with the ball. He claimed five wickets in England’s second innings, completing an impressive match performance after taking four wickets in the first innings.
Mohammad Ali and Khurram Shahzad also played their part in restricting England, taking two wickets each. Abbas finished the match with nine wickets in total, making him Pakistan’s leading bowler across the two innings.
England had earlier been dismissed for 290 in their first innings. Pakistan struggled in response, with the visitors being bowled out for just 110, giving England a significant advantage heading into the second innings.
With a target of 389 runs, Pakistan now face a demanding fourth-innings chase at Lord’s. The result of the second Test could prove crucial in shaping the outcome of the three-match series, with Pakistan needing a strong batting performance to stay in contention.
