The rain interrupted England’s series-clinching victory over Pakistan on Saturday, with no play possible during the morning session of the third day of the second Test at Lord’s.
The hosts entered the day in a strong position at 81-3 in their second innings, holding an overall lead of 261 runs. England are seeking a 2-0 lead in the three-match series after their dominant victory in the opening Test at Headingley.
Persistent rain prevented the players from taking the field before lunch, delaying England’s attempt to strengthen their commanding position.
With conditions beginning to improve, the umpires planned an inspection at 1:15pm local time, or 5:15pm Pakistan time, provided there was no further rain.
England will hope the weather allows sufficient play for them to push towards a declaration or a sizeable fourth-innings target for Pakistan.
England dismissed Pakistan for just 110 runs on Friday, leaving the tourists facing another difficult fourth innings if the hosts eventually set them a target.
Ollie Robinson was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 4-11 from 13 overs as Pakistan struggled against England’s pace attack.
Jofra Archer also made an important contribution, taking 3-26, while Josh Tongue claimed 2-27.
Pakistan have never scored more than 234 in the fourth innings of a Test against England in England, adding further pressure to their already difficult situation.
England themselves suffered an alarming start to their second innings, falling to 13-2 on a pitch offering considerable movement for the seamers.
However, the hosts recovered through their middle order before bad light ended play early on Friday.
Emilio Gay remained unbeaten on 30, while Harry Brook was not out on seven. Gay has faced increasing pressure after averaging only 22.50 across his first eight Test innings.
Brook, meanwhile, is searching for his first Test century in more than a year despite being ranked the world’s No. 1 Test batter.
Pakistan Face Another Major Challenge
Pakistan’s first innings was completed in only 37.2 overs, with Azan Awais top-scoring with a determined 46.
Saud Shakeel was the only other Pakistan batter to reach double figures, scoring 16. Captain Babar Azam made a brief impact before edging Tongue to third slip.
Pakistan were also without Imam-ul-Haq, who was unable to bat after suffering a calf injury while fielding.
ALSO READ: Pakistan vs England test match at lords: Early Dominance by Green Shirts
With England already holding a substantial lead, Pakistan now face a huge challenge to prevent the hosts from taking an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
