Pakistan suffered another major batting collapse on the opening day of the third Test against England at Edgbaston.
The visitors’ pace attack tore through Pakistan’s top and middle order. As a result, Pakistan were bowled out for only 133 in 33.5 overs.
Josh Tongue led England’s attack with four wickets for 42 runs. Ollie Robinson claimed three for 15, while Jofra Archer took three for 25.
The defeat would put Pakistan under enormous pressure. England already lead the three-match series 2-0 and are now in a strong position to complete a clean sweep.
Pakistan lose four wickets early
Pakistan’s problems started almost immediately after England chose to bowl.
The visitors reduced them to 26-4 during the opening hour. Robinson struck first when he trapped Saim Ayub lbw.
Archer then removed Azan Awais for nine. Robinson followed by dismissing Abdullah Shafique for three.
Shan Masood soon became another victim. He miscued a pull shot against Archer, leaving Pakistan in serious trouble.
England’s bowlers kept attacking the stumps and maintained disciplined lines. The conditions also offered some movement, which made life even harder for Pakistan’s batsmen.
Tongue adds to Pakistan’s misery
Tongue entered the attack and quickly changed the game.
He dismissed Babar Azam for seven in his first over. The England fast bowler then removed Ghazi Ghori before yorking Mohammad Imran.
By lunch, Pakistan had fallen to 100-7.
The lower order showed more resistance. However, Pakistan could not build a meaningful partnership.
Saud Shakeel once again top-scored for Pakistan. He made 43 from 47 deliveries before Tongue claimed his wicket.
The final wicket pair added 26 runs. Mohammad Abbas scored 21, but Pakistan still finished with a modest total of 133.
It was another disappointing batting display from a team that had already struggled badly during the series.
England take control
England also lost early wickets after beginning their reply.
Pakistan debutant Razaullah produced an impressive moment when he dismissed Joe Root with only his fourth delivery in Test cricket.
Pakistan’s bowlers also removed Ben Duckett and Jordan Cox. However, England recovered before the close.
Emilio Gay and Harry Brook put together a century partnership. Gay made 60, his highest Test score so far, while Brook remained unbeaten on 52 at the end of play.
England reached 156-4 and took a 23-run lead.
Pakistan face huge challenge
The result leaves Pakistan with a difficult task on the second morning.
Their bowlers must take quick wickets to prevent England from building a significant advantage.
Razaullah has already provided encouragement with his performance on debut. Meanwhile, Mohammad Ali and Mohammad Abbas also made early breakthroughs.
However, England remain firmly in control.
Pakistan have now failed to reach 200 in any of their six innings during the series. Their latest collapse also highlights the continuing problems caused by the team’s major changes before the third Test.
Seven players were sent home after the second Test, while head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul also left their positions.
England, meanwhile, need only to maintain their current advantage to move closer to a 3-0 series victory.
For Pakistan, the priority is clear. They must find a way to stop England’s powerful pace attack and produce a much stronger response before the final Test slips beyond their reach.
