LEEDS (Web Desk) – England were bowled out for 409 in their first innings on the third day of the opening Test against Pakistan on Friday, taking a commanding 238-run lead over the visitors.
Harry Brook was England’s leading scorer, producing a fluent 91-run innings and falling just nine runs short of a century.
Jordan Cox made 73, while Joe Root contributed 66 and Dan Lawrence scored 51 as England built a sizeable total in response to Pakistan’s first-innings score of 171.
Brook, Cox, Root and Lawrence all struck half-centuries, giving England control of the match and increasing the pressure on Pakistan ahead of their second innings.
Pakistan found some relief through Ali Usman, who delivered an impressive bowling performance to claim five wickets. His victims included Brook and Lawrence as he helped Pakistan eventually dismiss the hosts for 409.
However, England’s total gave them a substantial 238-run first-innings advantage after Pakistan’s batting line-up had earlier been dismissed for 171.
The visitors now face a major challenge to keep themselves in the contest. Pakistan will first have to wipe out the deficit in their second innings before they can begin setting England a target.
A considerably stronger batting performance will be required if Pakistan are to stage a comeback in the match.
England, meanwhile, remain firmly in control after converting Pakistan’s low first-innings total into a commanding advantage.
Match position
Pakistan: 171 all out
England: 409 all out
England lead: 238 runs
Key performers
Harry Brook: 91
Jordan Cox: 73
Joe Root: 66
Dan Lawrence: 51
Ali Usman: Five wickets
England’s 238-run advantage has left Pakistan under significant pressure. The visitors need to avoid early wickets in their second innings and build substantial partnerships to bring themselves back into contention.
Pakistan’s immediate task will be to erase the first-innings deficit. England will look for early wickets to strengthen their position and increase their chances of taking control of the opening Test.
