Mohammad Abbas struck three times as Pakistan reduced England to 80-4 before lunch on the opening day of the second Test.
LONDON, UK – Web Desk: Pakistan made a dominant start to the second Test against England at Lord’s on Thursday, reducing the hosts to 80-4 at lunch after a delayed start caused by rain.
Veteran seamer Mohammad Abbas led Pakistan’s attack, taking three wickets for 34 runs as humid conditions helped the right-arm bowler generate movement and trouble England’s top order. Mohammad Ali claimed the other wicket shortly before the lunch interval.
Abbas strikes England’s top order
Abbas opened Pakistan’s breakthrough with the wicket of Emilio Gay, who edged a delivery down the leg side and was caught by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.
The Pakistan bowler then dismissed Ben Duckett after successfully reviewing an on-field not-out decision.
Abbas completed his three-wicket haul by trapping England captain Joe Root lbw for four.
The early strikes left England struggling at 80-4 after Pakistan had made the most of the conditions at Lord’s.
Mohammad Ali removes Harry Brook
Mohammad Ali added another important breakthrough shortly before lunch when he bowled Harry Brook for 15 with an inswinging delivery.
Jordan Cox was unbeaten on 27 from 29 balls when the players went off for lunch.
Pakistan’s bowling performance represented a significant turnaround after England’s comprehensive victory in the first Test at Headingley.
Babar Azam returns for Pakistan
Pakistan welcomed back captain Babar Azam for the second Test.
Babar missed the opening match, in which Pakistan suffered an innings-and-103-run defeat. Salman Ali Agha captained the side in Babar’s absence.
England, meanwhile, retained the same XI that won the first Test.
Rain delays start at Lord’s
The second Test began later than scheduled after rain in London.
The wet weather subsequently created humid conditions that proved useful for Pakistan’s seam attack, with Abbas exploiting the movement to put England under pressure during the opening session.
Pakistan seek series comeback
England currently lead the three-match series 1-0 following their emphatic victory at Headingley.
Pakistan will be encouraged by their bowling display at Lord’s as they attempt to level the series. England, meanwhile, will look to rebuild their innings through Jordan Cox and the remaining middle and lower order.
The second Test remains in its early stages, with Pakistan holding the advantage after an impressive opening session.
Key Match Details
- Match: England vs Pakistan, 2nd Test
- Venue: Lord’s, London
- Date: August 27, 2026
- England: 80-4 at lunch
- Pakistan’s best bowler: Mohammad Abbas — 3/34
- Other wicket: Mohammad Ali
- Jordan Cox: 27 not out
- Joe Root: 4
- Harry Brook: 15
- Series: England lead 1-0
- Pakistan captain: Babar Azam
