England moved closer to a 3-0 Test series sweep over Pakistan after taking a commanding first-innings lead in the third Test at Edgbaston. Joe Root’s side reached 453 before being dismissed on Thursday, giving England a huge 320-run advantage.
England had already won the first two Tests. As a result, Pakistan entered the match needing a strong response to avoid another defeat. However, their inexperienced bowling attack struggled to contain England’s middle and lower order.
Lawrence and Brook Keep England Moving
Dan Lawrence continued England’s strong progress on the second morning. He reached his half-century from only 47 balls and struck eight boundaries.
However, England soon lost Harry Brook in frustrating fashion. Brook was run out for 75 while closing in on what would have been his 11th Test century.
The dismissal ended an 86-run partnership with Lawrence. England were 229-5 at that stage.
Jamie Smith then joined Lawrence at the crease. The scoring slowed briefly, but Smith quickly showed his attacking approach.
He launched spinner Saim Ayub over his head for a six. Lawrence later fell for 65 after chopping a delivery from Mohammad Imran onto his stumps.
Smith, Robinson and Archer Add More Runs
Imran claimed another wicket when he bowled Gus Atkinson for 19. England, however, continued to build a substantial lead.
Jamie Smith eventually made 69 before being caught and bowled by Test debutant Razaullah. The wicket was the bowler’s third of the innings, and he celebrated enthusiastically.
Razaullah finished with the best figures among Pakistan’s bowlers. He took 4-148 during England’s lengthy innings.
Meanwhile, Ollie Robinson produced an aggressive half-century. He reached 50 from only 47 balls.
Jofra Archer also added quick runs at the end of the innings. His 32 helped England push beyond the 450 mark and increased the pressure on Pakistan.
Pakistan Face Another Difficult Test
Pakistan had already endured a difficult tour before arriving at Edgbaston. They suffered a heavy 194-run defeat in the second Test.
After that loss, Pakistan released seven players. They also removed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and assistant coach Umar Gul.
The team made four changes for the third Test. Despite the reshuffle, Pakistan struggled again with the bat.
They were dismissed for only 133 runs in their first innings. None of their top five batters reached double figures.
The latest collapse also extended a worrying run. Pakistan have now failed to score 200 in five consecutive innings in England.
England Seize Control at Edgbaston
Pakistan briefly gave themselves hope after reducing England to 39-3. However, opener Emilio Gay steadied the innings with a composed 60 on Wednesday.
Once Gay was dismissed, England’s middle and lower order took control. Their eventual total of 453 left Pakistan facing a huge deficit.
England’s dominant position means they are now within reach of completing a 3-0 series victory.
For Pakistan, avoiding another defeat has become the immediate priority. They must overcome a 320-run deficit before they can even consider setting England a target.
Root Eyes Perfect Start as Permanent Captain
A series sweep would provide a major boost for Joe Root and his team.
Root has begun his second spell as England’s permanent captain with the side in need of a turnaround. England had recently endured a difficult period, including a series defeat against New Zealand.
The team also saw major leadership changes. Brendon McCullum left his role as head coach, while Ben Stokes stepped down as captain.
Therefore, a 3-0 victory over Pakistan would represent an impressive start to England’s new era.
Pakistan, meanwhile, face a major challenge to keep the series from ending in another heavy defeat. With England holding such a large first-innings advantage, the visitors need a dramatic turnaround at Edgbaston.
