Abbas takes three wickets as Pakistan on top against England

London witnessed a victorious first day of the second Test between Pakistan and England at Lord’s after a rain-delayed start. In a rain-soaked scenario, the muggy conditions favoured Pakistan’s Muhammad Abbas, who took three crucial wickets for 34 runs. Mohammad Ali also contributed one wicket shortly before the lunch interval.

Abbas removed the opposition top order when he trapped Emilio Gay behind the stumps off the last ball of the third over. Ben Duckett was the next in line, caught off a well-directed delivery from Abbas, who reviewed the decision successfully. Captain Joe Root was then pinned in front of his stumps by Abbas, resulting in England's star player's downfall for four.

Despite England's efforts to counter-attack with Jordan Cox, who scored 27 not out from the last three overs, the hosts struggled to stabilize. Harry Brook was the final wicket to fall in Pakistan's successful session, bowled by Ali's inswinger for a mere 15 runs. England chose to keep their team unchanged from the first Test, which they won at Headingley. Pakistan's Babar Azam returned to the lineup, replacing Salman Ali Agha who had taken over for the crucial Leeds match.