England moved closer to a 3-0 Test series whitewash over Pakistan at Edgbaston after Ollie Robinson produced another outstanding spell on Thursday.
The fast bowler took two wickets in his opening over of Pakistan’s second innings as the visitors reached 52-2 before rain brought an early end to play on day two. Pakistan still need 268 runs to make England bat again.
Robinson Continues Remarkable Series
Robinson, who was named Player of the Match in the first two Tests, struck with the very first ball of Pakistan’s second innings.
He dismissed Saim Ayub for a duck before removing Abdullah Shafique just three deliveries later. Robinson finished the day with impressive figures of 2-10 from six overs.
The 32-year-old has now taken 21 wickets in the series at an extraordinary average of less than seven runs per wicket.
Pakistan Struggle Against Robinson
Pakistan batting coach Mike Smith praised Robinson’s consistency and ability to put pressure on batsmen.
He said Robinson has bowled exceptionally well during his current run of form, while Pakistan must find a way to deal with the English seamer.
Shan Masood survived a dropped chance at slip by Ben Duckett off Gus Atkinson and remained unbeaten on 21 at the close. Opener Azan Awais was also not out on 29.
Despite their efforts, Pakistan face a difficult task to avoid another defeat.
England Build a Huge First-Innings Lead
England had resumed the day with a 23-run lead and accelerated their scoring to establish a commanding 320-run advantage.
They were eventually bowled out for 453, with Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence putting together an 86-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
Brook was dismissed for 75 from 97 balls after attempting an impossible single, with Pakistan captain Shan Masood completing the run-out.
Lawrence Continues Strong Comeback
Lawrence continued his impressive return to Test cricket with another half-century.
He scored 65 from 82 deliveries before dragging a wide ball onto his stumps to give Mohammad Imran his first Test wicket.
It was Lawrence’s third consecutive Test half-century since being recalled to the England side following a two-year absence.
Jamie Smith Hits Valuable Half-Century
Jamie Smith also produced an important contribution with the bat, scoring 69 from 84 balls.
The wicketkeeper-batter overcame an uncertain start and a finger injury, which forced him to hand over wicketkeeping duties to Jordan Cox.
Smith hit nine fours and one six, recording his highest Test score since his 88 against India at the same venue 14 months ago.
Robinson Adds Runs With the Bat
Robinson also contributed significantly with the bat, making a valuable half-century.
His innings included a huge six into the Hollies Stand off Mohammad Abbas before he was dismissed by Razaullah.
His all-round contribution further strengthened England’s dominant position in the Test.
Razaullah Offers Pakistan a Glimpse of Hope
Despite Pakistan’s difficult position, 21-year-old Razaullah provided one of the few positives.
Playing only his ninth first-class match after being called up, the young bowler conceded 148 runs from his 23 overs but showed pace and aggression.
His performance could offer Pakistan hope for the future, even as the current team struggles.
Pakistan Face Another Heavy Defeat
Pakistan’s position remains extremely difficult as they look to save the third Test.
The visitors have now lost 15 of their last 20 Tests, and England are firmly in control at Edgbaston as they look to complete a series whitewash.