Smith & Cox help England to 248-9 on truncated day one
Jamie Smith and Jordan Cox battle difficult conditions and an improved Pakistan performance to take England to a competitive total on the opening day of the second Test.
On day one of the second Test at Lord's, England posted a competitive total of 248-9 against Pakistan. Captain Jacob Bethell's return from injury was limited by illness, while Pakistan missed out on Babar Azam's return from a hand injury. Jamie Smith and Jordan Cox led England's charge with scores of 61 and 55 respectively. Cox's half-century was a crucial partnership with Smith, who looked fluent in his third Test appearance.
Gus Atkinson contributed 34 not out, providing a late boost for England. Pakistan's performance was led by Muhammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali, who took four and three wickets respectively. However, Pakistan's batsmen dropped three catches, hampering their progress. The damp and gloomy conditions at Lord's, coupled with reduced daylight, limited England's bowling opportunities.
Despite this, England's innings appeared workable, with Cox proving difficult to leave out once Jacob Bethell returns. The match could turn into a tight Test, with Pakistan having the chance to gain a foothold if they bat well.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
