| 0.0 : It was England who went past the Pakistani challenge in the first game. The caravan from both the teams have arrived at Southampton for the 2nd encounter between the two teams. England are without Ben Stokes in this game. However, they went past Pakistan without Stokes' significant contribution and will look to do the same here. Pakistan had the game under their control for the majority of the time but faltered when it mattered the most. However, they will like to forget that and begin afresh in |
| TOSS - Pakistan win the toss and elect to bat first. |
| England (Playing XI) - Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley (In for Ben Stokes), Joe Root (C), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (WK), Chris Woakes, Sam Curran (In for Jofra Archer), Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, James Anderson. |
| Pakistan (Playing XI) - Shan Masood, Abid Ali, Azhar Ali (C), Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Fawad Alam (In for Shadab Khan), Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Yasir Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah. |
| Pakistan skipper, Azhar Ali says that the weather is hot and they want to make full use of it. On the pitch, Azhar says there is a lot more grass and there will be some toughness early on. On his team changes, Azhar informs that they have one change as Fawad Alam comes in place of Shadab Khan. On the loss, Azhar admits that everyone is hurt but they have taken the positives and look to move forward. |
| England skipper, Joe Root, starts by telling that Sam Curran comes in for Jofra Archer while Zak Crawley has replaced Ben Stokes. Tells that they wanted to strengthen their batting. Also mentions that Curran has done really well batting down the order since his debut. Feels that they need to be sure that there will be times when Stokes might be injured and as a side, they need to be doing really well without him as well. Adds that Anderson might get some swing because of the overhead conditions. |
| Right! Time for the action! It's really overcast and England will surely look to use the conditions to their effect. The new ball will be key! Shan Masood and Abid Ali, the two openers for Pakistan didn't give them a sniff in the first hour of Day 1 in the 1st Test. They stride out to open the innings once again with similar intentions. James Anderson with the ball first up. He will enjoy the conditions right now. Here he comes... |
| 0.1 : J Anderson to Masood, Run straightaway! Anderson bowls this good length ball just outside off, Masood pushes it towards point and takes a single. |
| 0.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Beaten! Good away movement there for Anderson. Good length ball just around off, moves away a hint to beat the poke of Abid. |
| 0.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Another one with an away movement but this one is little wide outside off, Abid lets it go to the keeper. |
| 0.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Abid is off the mark but he wanted to leave that ball. It is on a good length and just outside off, Abid looks to leave it alone but he is a bit late in doing so. The ball hits the bat and goes towards point for a single. |
| 0.5 : J Anderson to Masood, FOUR LEG BYES! Down the leg side and Buttler cannot stop this to his right. Anderson misses his line and bowls it on the pads. Masood looks to tuck it on the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads. Buttler dives to his right but fails to stop the ball. |
| 0.6 : J Anderson to Masood, A leave to end the over! Shortish and outside off, Masood shoulders arms as it moves further away. |
| Stuart Broad to bowl from the other end. Three slips and a gully in place. |
| 1.1 : S Broad to Ali, A fuller one around off to begin by Broad. Abid keeps it out off his front foot. |
| 1.2 : S Broad to Ali, Perfect line and length! On a good length and around off, it zipped through the defense and kept rising as it went to Buttler behind the wickets. |
| 1.3 : S Broad to Ali, This time Abid says I am not poking at this as it is wide outside off. |
| 1.4 : S Broad to Ali, Another leave as Abid does not accept this drive offer from Broad who lures with a fullish one outside off. |
| 1.5 : S Broad to Ali, Around off on a good length, Abid looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads. |
| 1.6 : S Broad to Ali, A maiden from Broad to begin his spell as the last ball is wide outside off on a good length. Abid shoulders arms. |
| 2.1 : Anderson to Masood, Appeal for LBW but not out says the umpire! Good length ball on the pads, Masood looks to defend but misses to get hit on the pads. They appeal but not out says the umpire. No review from England. |
| 2.2 : J Anderson to Masood, OUT! LBW! There's the wicket! Superb from Anderson. Another hint of movement and Masood who scored a ton in the 1st innings of the last game is out of here. This is around off on a good length, Masood looks to defend but a hint of inward movement means his struck on the pads. A huge appeal follows and this time the umpire agrees with Anderson and England. That looked plumb and there's no way Masood is going to review that. He just keeps walking. England have a perfect |
| Azhar Ali, the skipper, is the next batsman in. |
| 2.3 : J Anderson to Ali, A leave to begin from the Pakistani skipper as this is a good length ball just outside off but Azhar has his stumps covered. |
| 2.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Fuller and around middle, Azhar keeps it out off his front foot. |
| 2.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Fuller and on middle, stroked to mid on. |
| 2.6 : J Anderson to Ali, Shortish and around off, Azhar fends it towards the slip cordon. End of a successful over from Anderson. |
| 3.1 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, Abid is on the back foot to defend. |
| 3.2 : S Broad to Ali, Good from Broad as well. He is bowling that probing line around off stump on good length. This one is right up there too. Abid has a poke but misses. |
| 3.3 : S Broad to A Ali, DROPPED! Sibley at third slip puts it down. Broad will not be pleased. That was the chance to send both the openers back to pavilion but Sibley has made a mess. Broad bowls a fuller one just outside off, Abid looks to drill it through the covers but he manages a thick outside edge that goes between the second slip and third slip. Sibley at third slip moves to his left and tries to catch but the ball hits his palm and goes towards short fine leg. A single taken. How costly |
| 3.4 : S Broad to Ali, Fuller and around off, blocked. |
| 3.5 : S Broad to Ali, Shortish and around off, forced towards point. |
| 3.6 : S Broad to Ali, Outside off, left alone. |
| 4.1 : J Anderson to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot. |
| 4.2 : J Anderson to Ali, FOUR! First boundary off the bat! Abid has driven it firmly this time! Full and outside off, Abid leans into the shot and times it through the covers nicely. No chance for anyone to stop. |
| 4.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball on the pads, Abid looks to defend but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal follows but not out says the umpire. |
| 4.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball on middle, Abid keeps it out off his back foot. |
| 4.5 : J Anderson to Ali, On the pads, Abid looks to work it on the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads. |
| 4.6 : J Anderson to Ali, This one goes away! Excellent over from Anderson. Bowls it just outside off on a good length, Abid pokes at it to get beaten. |
| 5.1 : S Broad to Ali, On a good length and outside off, Azhar shoulders arms to this one. |
| 5.2 : S Broad to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Azhar looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad. |
| 5.3 : S Broad to Ali, BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it. |
| 5.4 : S Broad to Ali, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it due to the seam movement on this one. |
| 5.5 : S Broad to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through mid-wicket. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 5.6 : S Broad to Ali, Full again on off, Azhar drives it through mid off. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 6.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Just a push and a couple of runs for Abid. Anderson bowls it full and around off, Abid presents the full face of the bat and gently pushes it through mid on. A couple of runs taken before Curran can get to the ball. |
| 6.2 : J Anderson to Ali, On middle, this time Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a run. |
| 6.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Fuller and around off, pushed towards point. Abid says wait karo, wait, as the skipper wanted for the run. |
| 6.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Full and around off, blocked solidly. |
| 6.5 : J Anderson to Ali, On off, Azhar keeps it out off his front foot. |
| 6.6 : J Anderson to Ali, Outside off on a good length, Azhar shoulders arms. |
| 7.1 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, Abid defends it nicely. |
| 7.2 : S Broad to Ali, On off, watchfully defended again. |
| 7.3 : S Broad to Ali, The batsman shows the full face of the bat and defends the ball off the back foot. |
| 7.4 : S Broad to Ali, FOUR BYES! This is down the leg side. Abid looks to flick but misses. Buttler dives to his left, gets his hand to it but fails to stop and the ball races to the fence at fine leg. |
| 7.5 : S Broad to Ali, Corrects the line and bowls this one in the channel outside off. It moves away a touch to beat the outside edge. |
| 7.6 : S Broad to Ali, Shortish and around off, blocked off the back foot. |
| 8.1 : J Anderson to Ali, On the pads, Azhar flicks it to deep square leg for an easy single. |
| 8.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball on middle, it is played towards mid on. |
| 8.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball just outside off, Abid spots the away movement early and withdraws his bat at the last moment. |
| 8.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Outside off, left alone. |
| 8.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Beaten this time! Excellent from Anderson. Pitches this just around off and makes it move away from the defensive poke of Abid. |
| 8.6 : J Anderson to Ali, This time he gets behind the line of the ball to defend it off his back foot. |
| 9.1 : S Broad to Ali, Quick single! Good length ball around off, Azhar pushes it towards cover-point and calls for a single. |
| 9.2 : S Broad to Ali, Beauty from Broad. Abid did well to draw his bat away though. A length ball just outside off, goes away as it gets closer to bat. Abid looks to push at it but hangs his bat away at the last moment. |
| 9.3 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, this time he keeps it out solidly towards the cover fielder. |
| 9.4 : S Broad to Ali, Angled in a good length, Abid looks to defend but misses and gets hit high on the pads. |
| 9.5 : S Broad to Ali, Goes full this time! Abid looks to push it towards the off side but the ball takes the inner half and goes to fine leg for a single. |
| 9.6 : S Broad to Ali, Good length around off, blocked coming forward. |
| First change of the morning as Sam Curran comes on to bowl now. |
| 10.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a length on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a single. |
| 10.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, Length delivery on middle, Azhar drives it through mid on for a run. |
| 10.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 10.4 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid drives it to mid on. |
| 10.5 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 10.6 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a good length on middle, Abid defends it out. |
| Chris Woakes is into the attack. |
| 11.1 : C Woakes to Ali, He begins with a fuller one outside off, Azhar squeezes it towards point. |
| 11.2 : C Woakes to Ali, Appeal for LBW but not out! Well, the ball hits the stumps but the bails stay on the stumps. A length ball around off, Azhar looks to defend but misses to get hit on the pads. The ball then goes through his legs and rolls to the stumps but the bails remain on the stumps. |
| 11.3 : C Woakes to Ali, Outside off, left alone. |
| 11.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length ball on middle, worked towards deep square leg for a single. |
| 11.5 : C Woakes to Ali, Fuller and outside off, Abid drives it through the covers. He didn't time it well enough so only a couple. |
| 11.6 : C Woakes to Ali, FOUR! Flicked! 7 from Woakes' first! He bowls the last ball down the leg side. Abid flicks it to fine leg for a boundary. |
| 12.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, Shortish and on middle, Azhar tucks it towards deep square leg and scampers back for the second. |
| 12.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, Shortish and around off, played to the man at mid on. |
| 12.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, That's a brilliant yorker but Azhar did well to keep it out though. It is on middle, Azhar gets his bat down to block. |
| 12.4 : Sam Curran to Ali, Fuller and around off, pushed towards the mid off fielder. |
| 12.5 : Sam Curran to Ali, Slightly shortish and on middle, Azhar is on the back foot to block. |
| 12.6 : Sam Curran to Ali, Leave to end the over as Curran bowls it shortish and outside off. |
| 13.1 : C Woakes to Ali, FOUR! Away from the reach of Buttler! Woakes bowls it full but down the leg side. Abid looks to flick but gets a tickle behind. Buttler dives full length to his left but fails to get to the ball. |
| 13.2 : C Woakes to A Ali, Dropped! Once again at slips. It was Sibley on the first occasion who spilled it at third slip, now it is Burns who is at second slip. A shortish length ball just outside off, Abid looks to defend but there is extra bounce on this ball. It catches the higher part of the willow and goes to Burns at perfect height. He goes hard at the ball and spills it. It lobs towards Buttler who dives forward full stretch but can't get to the ball. Abid gets another life. It is Ben Stok |
| 13.3 : C Woakes to Ali, On middle, Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a run. |
| 13.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Outside off, left alone. |
| 13.5 : C Woakes to Ali, Beaten! Good take from Buttler. Just outside off on a good length, Abid is beaten off his front foot. The ball goes past the bat and then moves away. Buttler does well to dive to his left and pouch the ball. |
| 13.6 : C Woakes to Ali, Shortish and around off, Abid keeps it out. |
| DRINKS! A decent start for Pakistan. They have also been helped by the poor catching by the England players. The hosts should have had a least one more wicket but they have already missed Ben Stokes in the field. Can Abid and Azhar bat out the next hour and see off the first session? |
| 14.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a good length on off, Abid defends it off the back foot. |
| 14.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 14.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a good length on middle, Abid looks to defend but misses it and gets hit on the thigh pad. |
| 14.4 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg for a run. |
| 14.5 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full again on middle, Azhar flicks it through mid-wicket for a single. |
| 14.6 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it out. |
| 15.1 : C Woakes to Ali, On a good length and outside off, Azhar shoulders arms to this one. |
| 15.2 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot. |
| 15.3 : C Woakes to Ali, Outside off, Azhar does not bother to play at that. |
| 15.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar drives it to mid on. |
| 15.5 : C Woakes to Ali, On a good length and outside off, Azhar leaves it alone. |
| 15.6 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery outside off, Azhar offers no shot to this one. |
| 16.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a length on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg for a single. |
| 16.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot. |
| 16.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, Length delivery on off, Azhar plays it to covers. |
| 16.4 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on off, Azhar drives it to mid off. |
| 16.5 : Sam Curran to A Ali, Edged but just short! Fuller and around off, Azhar looks to work it on the leg side but gets a thick outside edge. He though played it with soft hands so it doesn't go to Root directly. Bounces well in front of the England skipper at first slip. |
| 16.6 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to square leg. |
| 17.1 : C Woakes to Ali, BEATEN! Short delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it. |
| 17.2 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it off the back foot. |
| 17.3 : C Woakes to Ali, Ouch! That's gone straight into the box. A length ball angled in, Abid looks to work it on the leg side but the ball bounces a tad extra and hits him near the box. He looks in some pain there and is taking his time. |
| The Pakistani physio comes out! Not sure what the physio can do in moments like these. Maybe, just to keep him a bit calm. Off he goes and Abid is ready to face. |
| 17.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid blocks it well. |
| 17.5 : C Woakes to Ali, Shortish and around middle, Abid keeps it out. |
| 17.6 : C Woakes to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a single. |
| 18.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it off the back foot. |
| 18.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a good length on off, Abid offers a solid defense on this one. |
| 18.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on middle, Abid keeps it out. |
| 18.4 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it through mid-wicket. The fielder chases it and does well to stop it. The batsmen get three runs. |
| 18.5 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot. |
| 18.6 : Sam Curran to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through square leg for a run. |
| 19.1 : C Woakes to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through square leg for a run. 50 up for Pakistan! |
| 19.2 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery outside off, Abid shoulders arms to this one. |
| 19.3 : C Woakes to Ali, On a length on off, Abid taps it towards point for a single. |
| 19.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Good length delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to square leg. |
| 19.5 : C Woakes to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot. |
| 19.6 : C Woakes to Ali, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it. |
| James Anderson is back on. 5-1-10-1 are his figures so far. |
| 20.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Anderson bowls it on middle and leg, Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a single. |
| 20.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Fullish on middle, Azhar defends it with a straight bat. |
| 20.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Good shot but straight to the fielder. Full and swinging away from around off, Azhar waits and drives it off the meat but finds point. |
| 20.4 : J Anderson to Ali, FOUR! This time the shot gets its reward. 50-run stand comes up with it. Anderson bowls it short around off, Azhar Ali, the skipper, gets on his back foot and punches it beautifully through cover. Pope gives it a chase and puts in a dive but comes second best. Good effort from Ollie but to no avail. |
| 20.5 : J Anderson to Ali, On middle, Azhar blocks it. |
| 20.6 : J Anderson to Ali, Outside off, the Pakistan Test skipper lets it carry to the keeper. |
| 21.1 : C Woakes to Ali, On the pads, Abid flicks it to the right of mid-wicket and comes out for a run but then quickly shouts no. |
| 21.2 : C Woakes to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 21.3 : C Woakes to Ali, Full again on middle, Abid flicks it towards mid on and takes a quick single. |
| 21.4 : C Woakes to Ali, Full delivery on off, Azhar drives it through covers. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 21.5 : C Woakes to Ali, Length delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it towards fine leg for a single. |
| 21.6 : C Woakes to Ali, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it. |
| 22.1 : J Anderson to Ali, On a length on middle, Azhar pushes it to mid-wicket. |
| 22.2 : J Anderson to Ali, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to cut but misses it. |
| 22.3 : J Anderson to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot. |
| 22.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Azhar defends it off the front foot. |
| 22.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Short delivery outside off, Azhar looks to cut but misses it. |
| 22.6 : J Anderson to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar keeps it out. |
| Stuart Broad back for his second spell! 5-2-7-0, his numbers so far. |
| 23.1 : S Broad to A Ali, On a good length on off, Abid looks to defend but gets an outside edge. It goes towards the second slip where the fielder collects it on one bounce. |
| 23.2 : S Broad to Ali, Good length delivery on middle, Abid blocks it off the front foot. |
| 23.3 : S Broad to Ali, On a good length on off, Abid defends it out. |
| 23.4 : S Broad to Ali, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it due to the inward movement on this one. |
| The rain has come in English summer to spoil the party just about 10 minutes before Lunch. Not a sight any fans like to see but a sight every fan is used to seeing it by now in the summer in the United Kingdom. With the shower, the umpires have decided to take early Lunch. |
| Top session for Pakistan! After losing the centurion from the last game quite early, Abid along with his skipper have done really well to battle out the session and add 56 in testing conditions. England would've had one more easily but they spilled a couple of chances that came their way. |
| The opening bowlers for England did really well early on. They bowled tight line and length from the start. Anderson managed to send Shan Masood in the pavilion. However, Sibley and Burns gave dropped easy chances off Broad and Woakes respectively to give life to Abid Ali. Woakes and Curran couldn't get their lines and lengths right as Abid and Azhar dealt with them without much trouble. Rain arrived a few minutes before the regular time for the Lunch break to force the players to go off. Let's |
| ... Day 1, Session 2 ... |
| We are back for the second essay! The rain has disappeared for now and let's hope it remains that way throughout the day. The two Alis, Abid and Azhar stride out to resume their innings. The England players follow them and take their positions on the field. Stuart Broad to finish his over. |
| 23.5 : S Broad to Ali, Beauty to begin the second session! A good length ball just outside off, Abid has a tentative poke at it to get beaten. |
| 23.6 : S Broad to Ali, Goes a bit fuller but outside off, left alone. Buttler behind the wicket fumbles but no extra run. |
| James Anderson to bowl from the other end. |
| 24.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Fullish and outside off, Azhar lets it be. |
| 24.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Shortish and around off and middle, Azhar tucks it towards mid-wicket. |
| 24.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Outside off, Azhar shoulders arms. |
| 24.4 : J Anderson to Ali, On the pads on a fuller length, Azhar finds mid-wicket with his flick. |
| 24.5 : J Anderson to Ali, On middle, worked towards the leg side. |
| 24.6 : J Anderson to Ali, Beaten! Appeal from Root from first slip but only from him. A length ball outside off, Azhar is lured into the drive. He does so away from his body to get beaten. Buttler takes the catch to his right. Root from first slip appeals but nothing from the keeper or the bowler. Interestingly, replays later in rolled in and showed that there was little spike as the ball went past the bat. Just a little. |
| 25.1 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, blocked. |
| 25.2 : S Broad to Ali, Ripper! Slightly shortish and around off, Abid is caught in his crease as he looks to defend. The ball though beats the outside edge and goes to Buttler. |
| 25.3 : S Broad to Ali, EDGY FOUR! Credit to Abid though for playing it with soft hands. Broad goes fuller and outside off, Abid looks to defend but gets a thick outside edge. The ball goes between gully and third slip. Both the fielders give it a chase but the ball wins the race. |
| 25.4 : S Broad to Ali, On middle, Abid tucks it towards the leg side and calls for a quick single. |
| 25.5 : S Broad to Ali, A leave from the Pakistani skipper as this is outside off on a good length. |
| 25.6 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, blocked off the back foot. |
| 26.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball around off, Abid works it towards mid-wicket. |
| 26.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Beaten! Shortish and outside off, Abid forces it towards the ball with hard hands but is beaten. |
| 26.3 : J Anderson to Ali, This time he leaves it. |
| 26.4 : J Anderson to A Ali, EDGY FOUR! Another one of those that frustrates the bowler. Once again credit to Abid there for playing with gentle hands. A fuller one just outside off, Abid comes forward and looks to defend but the ball takes the outside edge and goes to the third man fence past the slip cordon. Abid enters into the 40s. |
| 26.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Around off, blocked. |
| 26.6 : J Anderson to Ali, A leave on the last ball as this is wide outside off. |
| 27.1 : S Broad to Ali, Good length ball around off, comes back in well. However, Azhar reads the length nicely and watches it go to the keeper. |
| 27.2 : S Broad to Ali, Good take from Buttler. The ball swung back later after going past the batsman. Buttler does well to pouch the ball to his right. |
| 27.3 : S Broad to Ali, Outside off, Azhar once again lets it go to Buttler. |
| 27.4 : S Broad to Ali, Another one in the channel outside off, an easy leave. |
| 27.5 : S Broad to A Ali, Good length ball around off and middle, Azhar looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads. |
| 27.6 : S Broad to Ali, Fuller and around off and middle, Azhar does well to keep it out. |
| 28.1 : J Anderson to Ali, BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it. |
| 28.2 : J Anderson to Ali, BEATEN AGAIN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it due to the seam movement on this one. |
| 28.3 : J Anderson to Ali, On a good length on off, Abid blocks it off the front foot. |
| 28.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Length delivery on middle, Abid flicks it to mid-wicket. |
| 28.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a run. |
| 28.6 : J Anderson to Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot. |
| 29.1 : S Broad to Ali, On a length on middle, Abid flicks it to mid-wicket. |
| 29.2 : S Broad to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid blocks it off the front foot. |
| 29.3 : S Broad to A Ali, FOUR! On a good length on off, Abid looks to drive but gets an outside edge. It goes past third slip towards third man for a boundary. |
| 29.4 : S Broad to Ali, Good length delivery on middle, Abid looks to flick but gets hit on the thigh pad. |
| 29.5 : S Broad to Ali, On a length on leg, Abid looks to flick but gets it off the glove. It goes towards fine leg. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 29.6 : S Broad to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 30.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to mid-wicket. |
| 30.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Short delivery on off, Azhar cuts it to point. |
| 30.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Azhar blocks it off the back foot. |
| 30.4 : J Anderson to A Ali, On a good length on off, Azhar defends it with soft hands towards third slip. |
| 30.5 : J Anderson to Ali, OUT! Caught! Anderson gets his second of the game and Pakistan's skipper's fight comes to an end. Finally, the slip cordon has managed to hold onto it. A lot of talks before the start of this game about Anderson's position but Jimmy doing what he has done throughout his career, silencing critics with the cherry in hand and wickets in the pocket. Anderson and England have been slightly shorter than they should be but Jimmy corrects it and bowls it full around off. Azhar A |
| Babar Azam is the new batsman in. |
| 30.6 : J Anderson to Azam, Babar is off the mark! Good length ball on off, Azam punches it to the off side and keeps the strike. |
| 31.1 : S Broad to Azam, On a good length on off, Azam defends it off the back foot. |
| 31.2 : S Broad to B Azam, Full delivery on off, Azam drives it to covers. |
| 31.3 : S Broad to Azam, Full and outside off, Azam drives it through covers where Woakes chases it and does well to stop it just before the ropes. The batsmen get three runs. |
| 31.4 : S Broad to Ali, On a good length on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 31.5 : S Broad to A Ali, Full delivery on off, Abid drives it to covers. |
| 31.6 : S Broad to Ali, Full again on off, Abid drives it back towards the bowler. |
| 32.1 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length delivery on off, Azam defends it off the back foot. |
| 32.2 : J Anderson to Azam, On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one. |
| 32.3 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length delivery on off, Azam keeps it out. |
| 32.4 : J Anderson to Azam, On a good length on middle, Azam offers a solid defense on this one. |
| 32.5 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length delivery on off, Babar defends it out. |
| 32.6 : J Anderson to Azam, Full delivery on middle, Azam flicks it through mid-wicket. The fielder chases it and does well to stop it. The batsmen get three runs. |
| Sam Curran is back on. 5-0-11-0 are his figures so far. |
| 33.1 : Sam Curran to Azam, Good length delivery outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one. |
| 33.2 : Sam Curran to Azam, On a good length and outside off, Azam leaves it alone. |
| 33.3 : Sam Curran to Azam, Full delivery on middle, Azam drives it back towards the bowler. |
| 33.4 : Sam Curran to Azam, Length delivery on off, Babar taps it to point. |
| 33.5 : Sam Curran to Azam, On a good length on middle, Azam keeps it out. |
| It is unfortunate as it is raining heavily and the players are off the field. It was getting dark and the umpires have decided to finally get off the field. Hopefully, it moves away soon and we can resume quickly but for the moment it looks gloomy. |
| UPDATE 1345 GMT (1445 local) - Looks like rain has settled nicely and it will make us wait for a little while. Stay with us for the updates. |
| UPDATE 1353 GMT (1453 local) - The rain has stopped and the umpires will be having an inspection at 1515 local. |
| UPDATE 1415 GMT (1515 local) - The umpires came out to inspect the ground. They are worried about the dark clouds over. While it's not raining, it is quite dark. Let's hope there is no rain and we resume quickly. Stay with us. |
| UPDATE 1430 GMT (1530 local) - So, the outcome of the inspection that happened 10 minutes back is another inspection. The umpires think that the conditions are not perfect yet and they will return to check the same once again at 1545 local. |
| UPDATE 1435 GMT (1535 local) - So, the umpires have decided to take Tea at 1540 local. They will inspect the conditions at 1545 local and decide further. Which means we still got nearly 25 minutes before any play. Sit and have a cup of tea or coffee as we wait. |
| Right! TEA it is! Just 61 balls in the second session before rain arrived to halt the play! Anderson got better of the Pakistani skipper to give England a success in the session as Burns held onto one at slips. England would look to scalp a few more in the final session. For Pakistan, Azhar would feel that he did all the hard work but failed to capitalize. Abid and Babar will have the responsibility now to take Pakistan to a strong position, provided the final session resumes. Stay with us. |
| UPDATE 1452 GMT (1552 local) - So, the good news is that the covers have come off. We might get to see some cricket really soon. |
| ... Day 1, Session 3 ... |
| We are back for the final session of Day 1. The England players are out in the middle. Abid Ali and Babar Azam will resume their batting for Pakistan. Sam Curran will finish his over. |
| James Anderson to bowl from the other end. |
| 33.6 : Sam Curran to Azam, Fuller and around off, Babar comes forward and keeps it out off his front foot. |
| 34.1 : J Anderson to Ali, FIFTY FOR ABID! It comes off the outside edge but he can raise his bat to his teammates. He has done really well for this innings. A fuller ball around off, Abid looks to defend but the ball takes thick outside edge and goes to third man. He removes his helmet and raises his bat. Fighting innings from him and he has done well to utilize the couple of chances that England failed to take. |
| 34.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Good length ball around off, blocked. |
| 34.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Another good length ball around off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 34.4 : J Anderson to Ali, Around off, blocked nicely towards the off side. |
| 34.5 : J Anderson to Ali, Fuller and around off, this one is played at mid-wicket. |
| 34.6 : J Anderson to Ali, Play and a miss! Good length ball just outside off, Abid pokes at the ball to get beaten. |
| 35.1 : Sam Curran to B Azam, Good length ball around off, Babar looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads. |
| 35.2 : Sam Curran to Azam, This time he is right behind the line of the ball to block it towards mid on. |
| 35.3 : Sam Curran to Azam, Shortish and around middle, Babar tucks it behind square leg for a couple of runs. |
| 35.4 : Sam Curran to Azam, Fullish and around middle, Babar pushes it back to the bowler. |
| 35.5 : Sam Curran to Azam, On off, played towards mid off. |
| 35.6 : Sam Curran to Azam, A dot to end as this one is pushed towards the cover fielder off the back foot. |
| 36.1 : J Anderson to Ali, Short and wide outside off, Abid cuts it through cover-point. One hand comes off the handle and hence he didn't time it too well. A couple of runs before the fielder can get to the ball. |
| 36.2 : J Anderson to Ali, Outside off, this one is left alone by Abid. |
| 36.3 : J Anderson to Ali, Shortish and on middle, Abid did well to fend it off towards fine leg for a single. That bounced sharply but Abid managed to keep it out nicely. |
| 36.4 : J Anderson to Azam, In the channel outside off, Azam lets it be. |
| 36.5 : J Anderson to Azam, Wide outside off on a good length. Babar is not going after these. |
| 36.6 : J Anderson to Azam, FOUR! That is whipped! Slightly shortish and on the pads, Babar flicks it powerfully through mid-wicket. Times it superbly and bags a boundary. |
| 37.1 : Sam Curran to Ali, FOUR! Poor ball and punished! 100 up for Pakistan. Fuller ball on the pads, Abid easily nudges it to fine leg and the ball races away to the fence. |
| 37.2 : Sam Curran to Ali, Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out. |
| 37.3 : Sam Curran to Ali, On a length on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 37.4 : Sam Curran to A Ali, OUT! CAUGHT! Curran has his man! Abid Ali falls just after getting to his half-century! Excellent from Curran. After bowling a couple of fuller and inswingers, Curran takes this one away from a fullish length. Abid looks to defend but gets a thick outside edge. The ball goes to Burns at second slip who swallows it comfortably. Shake of the head from Abid as he knows he should've stayed a little longer, specially after getting a couple of let offs. |
| Asad Shafiq is in now. |
| 37.5 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Play and a miss! Curran bowls this around middle and takes it away again as Shafiq pokes at it to get beaten. |
| 37.6 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Good length ball around off, this one is forced towards point. End of a successful over from Curran. |
| 38.1 : J Anderson to Azam, BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Azam looks to push but misses it. |
| 38.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length delivery on off, Azam offers a solid defense on this one. |
| 38.3 : J Anderson to Azam, On a good length on middle, Babar keeps it out. |
| 38.4 : J Anderson to Azam, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azam looks to defend but misses it. |
| 38.5 : J Anderson to B Azam, On a good length on off, Azam looks to defend but gets an outside edge on this one. It goes towards third man. The batsmen get two runs. |
| 38.6 : J Anderson to Azam, BEATEN! Short delivery outside off, Azam looks to cut but misses it. |
| 39.1 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Length ball on middle and leg, Asad flicks it to id-wicket against the angle. |
| 39.2 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Full on off, Asad defends it by bending his back. |
| 39.3 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, On off, Shafiq keeps it out. |
| 39.4 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Asad is desperate to get off the mark. Length ball on off, Asad defends it towards point and comes out for a very risky single but Babar rightfully sends him back. Don't want to repeat the mistake of the last Test. |
| 39.5 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, On off, AS keeps it out. |
| 39.6 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Fuller on the stumps, Shafiq blocks it and gets through the over. |
| Change of ends for Broad. |
| 40.1 : S Broad to Azam, Good fielding from Anderson. Shows his passion and commitment. Broad bowls it full around off, Babar plays it to the left of mid off. 38-year old Anderson there dives to his left and stops the ball to save runs for his side. |
| 40.2 : S Broad to Azam, Outside off, Babar leaves it alone. |
| 40.3 : S Broad to Azam, Length ball on the testing channel outside off, Babar shoulders arms to it. |
| 40.4 : S Broad to Azam, Beautiful deliver. The line, the length, the seam presentation and the movement were all top-class in this delivery. It is full pitching on off and then swinging away. Babar looks to defend but the ball goes past his outside edge. |
| 40.5 : S Broad to Azam, Down the leg side, Azam looks to flick but misses. |
| 40.6 : S Broad to Azam, On the pads, this time Babar flicks through mid-wicket and gets a couple to end the over. |
| 41.1 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Extra bounce on this one. It is around the body, Shafiq looks to tuck it on the leg side but it comes off his glove. He gets a single to get his scoreboard off the mark. |
| 41.2 : Sam Curran to Azam, On the pads, Babar flicks it wide of deep square leg and gets a couple. |
| 41.3 : Sam Curran to Azam, Bouncer but down the leg side, Azam ducks under it. |
| 41.4 : Sam Curran to Azam, Little bit of inswing to Babar but he keeps his balance and plays it with the swing towards deep square leg for one. |
| 41.5 : Sam Curran to Shafiq, Again on the pads, Asad looks to flick but misses. The ball goes behind on the leg side off his thigh pad. Buttler goes behind it and recovers it. Three leg byes taken. |
| 41.6 : Sam Curran to Azam, Outside off, Babar leaves it alone. |
| 42.1 : S Broad to Shafiq, FOUR! Too straight, too full and punished. Asad gets his first boundary of the game. Bad ball from Broad. He goes full and on middle and leg, Shafiq loves it in that area and he puts it away with ease using his brilliant wrists and flicks this through mid-wicket for a boundary. |
| 42.2 : S Broad to Shafiq, Fuller on off, Shafiq drives it to point. |
| 42.3 : S Broad to Shafiq, OUT! Caught! Broad wins the battle. Good ball and very good catch from Sibley who redeems himself for a dropped catch earlier in the day. Broad pitches it up and in the channel of uncertainty around off. Asad expects it to come in but this one shapes away and takes the outside edge of Asad's bat. It goes to the right of second slip where Sibley takes a good low catch. Asad looks at the sky with disappointment and his poor run of form continues. |
| The man who is making his comeback into the Test side after more than a decade, Fawad Alam comes out to bat. |
| 42.4 : S Broad to Alam, Length ball around off, Alam defends it with a straight bat. |
| 42.5 : S Broad to Alam, Outside off, Fawad leaves it alone. |
| 42.6 : S Broad to Alam, Good ball to end a very eventful over. A boundary and a wicket off this one. Good length ball around off, it zips away and beats the outside edge of Fawad Alam's willow. |
| That's an interesting stance from Fawad Alam. It's almost side on but while playing the ball, he gets in the perfect position. |
| Chris Woakes is back for another spell. 6-1-21-0, his figures so fa. |
| 43.1 : C Woakes to Azam, Length ball outside off, Azam leaves it alone. |
| 43.2 : C Woakes to Azam, Outside off, Babar shoulders arms to it. |
| 43.3 : C Woakes to Azam, Length ball around off, Babar defends it to the off side. |
| 43.4 : C Woakes to Azam, Good running. On the pads, Babar flicks it through mid-wicket and gets three as the fielder from fine leg cleans it up. |
| LBW appeal taken upstairs. Fawad Alam is the man in question. Looks really close. Is there any bat? No, shows the Ultra Edge. Hitting the stumps? Yes, it is, confirms the Ball Tracker. Fawad has to go. Top review from Root and England. |
| 43.5 : C Woakes to Alam, OUT! LBW! Very good review from Root and Fawad Alam's comeback is a disastrous ne. He walks back for a duck on his return to Test cricket after more than a decade. He will be gutted with it and all his fans back in Pakistan will also be feeling disheartened. Good length ball pitching on leg, Fawad with his unorthodox stand looks to defend it but the ball comes a bit slower and he misses his defense. He misses and gets hit on the back pad. The England players appeal but th |
| Mohammad Rizwan joins Babar Azam. |
| 43.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Fuller on off, Rizwan blocks it to get through the over. |
| 44.1 : S Broad to Azam, Good length ball around off, Babar looks to defend but the ball takes the inside edge and goes towards fine leg for a single. |
| 44.2 : S Broad to M Rizwan, Fuller and around off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads. |
| 44.3 : S Broad to M Rizwan, Fuller and around off, Rizwan strokes it through mid on. Just a little punch. Three taken as the ball doesn't reach to the fence. He is off the mark in style. |
| 44.4 : S Broad to Azam, Outside off, left alone. |
| 44.5 : S Broad to Azam, Beauty! Shortish and outside off, Babar is on the back foot to poke at it but is beaten due to the extra bounce. |
| 44.6 : S Broad to Azam, Short again, this time it doesn't rise too big and Babar does well to defend it out. |
| 45.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it towards mid on for a single. |
| 45.2 : C Woakes to Azam, Good length delivery outside off, Azam shoulders arms to this one. |
| 45.3 : C Woakes to Azam, Full delivery on middle, Azam flicks it through square leg for a run. |
| 45.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to defend but misses it. Rain around the corner it seems. |
| Yes, the umpire's call for the covers and off we go! Not good for any batting side but nothing can be done about this. |
| Excellent session for England so far. They got rid of Abid Ali first and then Asad Shafiq and Fawad Alam followed him back to the pavilion. Curran, Broad and Woakes have got a wicket to their name. They are bowling well under the overhead condition and would be eager to get a few more overs at Pakistan. Stay with us for the update. |
| UPDATE 1617 GMT (1717 local) - So, the news is that the rain has stopped and the covers are being removed for now. However, the light can be an issue as it is quite dark right now. Let's hope the light improves quickly and we get a few more overs. |
| UPDATE 1640 GMT (1740 local) - Well, scratch the previous update as the covers come back on! So, this might well be end of Day 1. Let's hope against the hope and see if there's any drastic change in the weather and we get through a few more overs. Looks tough though. |
| UPDATE 1705 GMT (1805 local) - There is nothing new to update. The covers are still on and though we would like to think positively but it looks like we will be heading for Stumps without any further play on Day 1. |
| That's it! Finally, they take the call. STUMPS ON DAY 1. This was always on the cards with the dark clouds and rain around. A typical English weather spoils the party for the fans. England would be the happier side though as they have send half the Pakistani batters into the pavilion. |
| Let's go at the start. Azhar Ali, after winning the toss, opted to bat under tough and overcast conditions. They lost Masood early to James Anderson. Abid Ali and skipper Azhar Ali then added 50+ in the first session which was cut short early due to the rain. Players returned for the 2nd session with Pakistan losing skipper Azhar to Anderson. Rain arrived again and washed the remaining 2nd session. We got some action in the final session with Pakistan losing 3 wickets to 3 different bowlers. Abi |
| That's all from the action on Day 1. Sadly, the weather forecast for 2nd Day is quite similar to Day 1. But let's trust the English weather and see if it does any favor for us, fans and we get more action than Day 1. Pakistan will hope for good innings from Babar and Rizwan while England will hope the bowlers knock the remaining 5 wickets quickly. The action on Day 2 starts at 1100 local (1000 GMT). We will love your company for the same. Until then, take care! |
| ... Day 2, Session 1 ... |
| Hello and welcome to Day 2 of the 2nd Test between England and Pakistan. It was rain which ended as the winner of Day 1 as just 45.4 overs were bowled due to poor weather. The forecast isn't too great, to be honest, for Day 2 and the remaining days. England made a fine comeback after Pakistan's good effort in the 1st session. With 5 wickets in hand which includes the presence of Babar Azam, Pakistan will look to put a respectable total while England will be eager to knock the five wickets as qui |
| UPDATE 1100 local (1000 GMT) - So, with rain around, the start of Day 2 is surely delayed. The covers are firmly placed. The rain is not too heavy but it is persistent for now. Also, the light isn't good either. So, as I said earlier, sit tight and wait! |
| UPDATE 1120 local (1020 GMT) - So, we have a good news! The rain has stopped and the covers are being removed. Let's hope there is no further rain and we get the action quickly. |
| UPDATE 1130 local (1030 GMT) - Right! The covers have been removed. However, since it has rained for a while, the groundsmen will need time to make things better. There will be an inspection at 1150 local. Positive signs! |
| UPDATE 1200 local (1100 GMT) - No official word yet about the inspection that was supposed to take place at 1150 local. So, all we can do is, wait! |
| UPDATE 1205 local (1105 GMT) - And, we have the update! A positive one! Play to resume at 1230 local. The first session will last for an hour. And Post the 40-minute Lunch break, we will have the second session. For all this to happen, the weather needs to be clear. So, first ball of Day 2 is not too far away, weather permitting. |
| We are ready to begin Day 2, finally. The two Pakistani batters, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan with a lot riding on their shoulders, stride out to resume their innings. The England players have already taken their position on the field. Chris Woakes will finish his 8th over. Rizwan to face. Here we go... |
| 45.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Woakes is on the money straightaway! A good length ball around off, Rizwan pushes it towards point off his back foot. |
| 45.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, A bouncer just outside off, Rizwan lets it be. |
| James Anderson will bowl from the other end! |
| 15-3-35-2 are his figures so far. |
| 46.1 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length ball on the pads, Azam looks to work it on the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads. |
| 46.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Fullish and around middle, Azam plays it towards the man at mid on. |
| 46.3 : J Anderson to Azam, Fuller and on off, it is defended solidly. |
| 46.4 : J Anderson to Azam, First run of Day 2! Another fuller one around off, Azam tucks it towards the leg side and calls for a quick single. |
| 46.5 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Outside off, left alone. |
| 46.6 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to this one. |
| 47.1 : C Woakes to Azam, Good length ball outside off, Babar leaves it alone. |
| 47.2 : C Woakes to Azam, FOUR! That's whipped! You just don't bowl on the pads of Babar. He is too good there. Woakes bowls it around middle and leg, Azam powerfully clips it to the deep mid-wicket fence. |
| 47.3 : C Woakes to Azam, Around off, Babar is solid in defense. |
| 47.4 : C Woakes to Azam, Shortish and around off, blocked. |
| 47.5 : C Woakes to Azam, Outside off on a good length, left alone. After passing Babar, the ball moved away sharply. |
| 47.6 : C Woakes to Azam, On the pads again and Babar clips it through mid-wicket. Easy three. 7 from the over. |
| 48.1 : J Anderson to Azam, In the channel outside off, Babar lets it go to Buttler. |
| 48.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Shortish and around off, Babar is on the back foot to defend. |
| 48.3 : J Anderson to Azam, Shortish and around off, this time Babar tucks it towards mid-wicket. A loud no for the run to his partner follows. |
| 48.4 : J Anderson to B Azam, Anderson goes fuller and around middle, Azam strokes it towards mid on. A fumble from the fielder but costs nothing. |
| 48.5 : J Anderson to Azam, Short and wide outside off, Azam looks to cut but misses as the ball moves away sharply. |
| 48.6 : J Anderson to Azam, Excellent ball to end the over! A hint of away movement this time. Babar did well to hang his bat away seeing that. It is shortish and just outside off, Babar thinks of playing it but reads it well and hangs his bat away from the ball. Well, replays suggested Babar did poke at it. |
| 49.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Shortish and outside off, Rizwan guides it to third man. It doesn't reach to the fence as Bess chase it down with a slide. Three taken. |
| 49.2 : C Woakes to Azam, Full and on off, blocked. |
| 49.3 : C Woakes to Azam, In the channel outside off, left alone. Dies as it goes to Buttler behind who does well to pouch the ball lunging forward. |
| 49.4 : C Woakes to Azam, Landed on middle, Babar tucks it towards mid-wicket and calls for a quick single. |
| 49.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Outside off, on slightly shortish length too. So, an easy leave for Rizwan. |
| 49.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, He plays at this one and misses! He had to play at it though. It was fuller and around off, Rizwan looks to slam it through mid on but the ball moves away significantly to beat the outside edge. |
| 50.1 : J Anderson to Azam, FOUR! Another one on the pads and Babar punishes it. Full and around middle and leg of Azam, he flicks it through mid-wicket. The fielders give it a chase but the ball wins the race. Azam looking really solid. |
| 50.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Corrects the line and bowls it around off, Azam is on the front foot to defend. |
| 50.3 : J Anderson to Azam, A leave now as this is outside off on a length. |
| 50.4 : J Anderson to Azam, Poor from Babar this time! He could've easily left that but he went after it. A shortish one outside off, Babar wanted to punch it off his back foot but misses. |
| 50.5 : J Anderson to Azam, Gets his focus back and blocks this fuller one back to Anderson. |
| 50.6 : J Anderson to Azam, Another solid defense on this last ball of the over. |
| 51.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Full and around off, Rizwan drives it well but finds the bowler. |
| 51.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Shortish and around off, blocked towards the cover fielder. |
| 51.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, In the channel outside off, Rizwan is not flirting with these. |
| 51.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Well, he flirts with this one and gets beaten. Woakes bowls it slightly shortish from wide of the crease. It moves away nicely from Rizwan's tentative push at the ball. |
| 51.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a good length and outside off, Rizwan leaves it alone. |
| 51.6 : C Woakes to M Rizwan, Full delivery on off, Rizwan drives it back towards the bowler. |
| 52.1 : J Anderson to Azam, On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one. |
| 52.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length delivery outside off, Azam shoulders arms to this one. |
| 52.3 : J Anderson to Azam, Outside off, Babar leaves it alone. |
| 52.4 : J Anderson to Azam, On a good length and outside off, Azam does not bother to play at that. |
| 52.5 : J Anderson to Azam, Full delivery on middle, Azam flicks it to mid-wicket. |
| 52.6 : J Anderson to Azam, Outside off, Babar lets it go. |
| 53.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a good length and outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to this one. |
| 53.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Length delivery on middle, Rizwan looks to flick but gets it off the pads. It goes towards square leg. The batsmen cross ends. The umpire gives it as a leg bye. |
| 53.3 : C Woakes to Azam, Good length delivery on off, Azam keeps it out. |
| 53.4 : C Woakes to Azam, On a length on off, Babar plays it to covers. |
| 53.5 : C Woakes to Azam, BEATEN! Beauty of a delivery! Good length delivery outside off, Azam looks to defend but misses it due to the away movement on this one. |
| 53.6 : C Woakes to Azam, Short delivery on middle, Azam pulls it to mid-wicket. |
| 54.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Fuller and around off, blocked. |
| 54.2 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, On the pads of Rizwan, he flicks it to deep square leg and gets a couple. |
| 54.3 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Around off on a length, Rizwan pushes it towards mid on. |
| 54.4 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Shorter and around middle, played towards mid on once again. |
| 54.5 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Fuller and around off, Rizwan flicks it well but can't beat square leg. |
| 54.6 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Dot to end from Curran! Couple of runs from the over. The last ball is on off, Rizwan pushes it towards mid off. |
| 55.1 : S Broad to Azam, Broad starts with a length ball down the leg side. Babar misses his flick. |
| 55.2 : S Broad to Azam, Short and wide outside off this time. Babar lets it be. |
| 55.3 : S Broad to Azam, Another one down the leg side. Babar once again misses his flick. |
| 55.4 : S Broad to Azam, Another one on the pads, this time Azam flicks it towards fine leg and gets a run. Broad is yet to get his line and length correct in his first over of the day. |
| 55.5 : S Broad to Rizwan, Shortish and just outside off, forced towards point off the back foot. |
| 55.6 : S Broad to Rizwan, A leave to end the over as Broad bowls the last ball outside off. |
| 56.1 : Sam Curran to Azam, Fullish and around off, Babar keeps it out. |
| 56.2 : Sam Curran to Azam, On the pads of Babar. He works it towards deep square leg for an easy run. |
| 56.3 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Bouncer but down the leg side. Rizwan looks to hammer it but fails to connect. Moves away from Buttler as it goes behind who does well to collect the ball. |
| 56.4 : Sam Curran to M Rizwan, Good length ball on middle, pushed towards mid on. |
| 56.5 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Outside of, Rizwan shoulders arms. |
| 56.6 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Fuller and around off, punched towards the cover fielder. |
| 57.1 : S Broad to Azam, On a good length on off, Azam defends it off the back foot. |
| 57.2 : S Broad to Azam, Good length delivery outside off, Azam leaves it alone. |
| 57.3 : S Broad to Azam, Outside off, Babar shoulders arms to this one. |
| 57.4 : S Broad to Azam, On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one. |
| 57.5 : S Broad to Azam, Length delivery on off, Azam taps it to point. |
| 57.6 : S Broad to Azam, Good length delivery outside off, Babar does not bother to play at that. |
| 58.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Length ball on off and middle, Rizwan defends it. |
| 58.2 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Length delivery around off and coming in. Rizwan looks to defend but chops it to the leg side off the inner half and gets to the other end. |
| 58.3 : Sam Curran to Azam, Outside off, Azam raises his blade and lets it carry to the keeper. |
| 58.4 : Sam Curran to Azam, Short ball. Babar ducks under it. |
| 58.5 : Sam Curran to Azam, Almost played on! Good length ball around off, Babar defends it late. He has no clue where the ball is so he decides to get his body and protect the stumps. The ball rolls to the side of the stumps. |
| 58.6 : Sam Curran to Azam, On off, Babar defends it to the off side. |
| 59.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, Outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to it. |
| 59.2 : S Broad to Rizwan, On the pads, Mohammad Rizwan flicks it behind square on the leg side for a single. |
| 59.3 : Broad to Azam, Length ball angling in from outside off, Babar punches it straight and Broad might have got his fingers to it and the ball hit the stumps at the other end. Rizwan though is well in so no appeal. |
| 59.4 : S Broad to Azam, Short ball, Babar ducks under it. |
| 59.5 : S Broad to Azam, Outside off, BA leaves it alone. |
| 59.6 : S Broad to Azam, Away from the off stump, asking Babar to drive but he refuses. |
| 60.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, On the pads, Rizwan flicks it to the leg side for a single. |
| 60.2 : Sam Curran to Azam, Length ball on off, Azam defends it. |
| 60.3 : Sam Curran to Azam, Once again Sam makes the ball angle in from middle, Babar flicks it through mid-wicket and gets a couple. |
| 60.4 : Sam Curran to B Azam, Fuller on off, BA plays it to cover. |
| 60.5 : Sam Curran to Azam, Length ball on off and middle, Babar moves across his stumps and flicks it in front of square on the leg side and gets another couple. |
| 60.6 : Sam Curran to Azam, On the pads, this time Babar goes behind square on the leg side and takes a single to bring a close to the shortened first session. It is Lunch on Day 2! |
| Fine phase for Pakistan! Babar and Rizwan have looked solid amid their good-looking partnership. England bowlers didn't make the batsman play a lot of balls at the start and that made things a little easier for the two batters. They will look to continue the same in the 2nd session and take Pakistan towards a solid total while England will be eager to break this stand quickly. Join us on the other side for the 2nd essay which will begin at 1410 local (1310 GMT). Let's hope the rain stays away an |
| ... Day 2, Session 2 ... |
| We are back for the second session of Day 2. The England players are out in the middle. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan will resume their innings for Pakistan. Stuart Broad will start the proceedings for the second session. |
| 61.1 : S Broad to Azam, Fuller and outside off, inviting the batsman to go for the drive but Babar lets it be. It dies down as it goes to the keeper. |
| 61.2 : S Broad to Azam, Beauty! Babar is lured this time as this is full and around off. He goes for the drive but misses. Buttler fails to collect. |
| 61.3 : S Broad to Azam, Gathers his emotions and gets back to leaving the ones which he should. Tight from Broad. |
| 61.4 : S Broad to Azam, Easy leave this time as this is full and outside off. This goes to Buttler at a good height. He does well to collect. |
| 61.5 : S Broad to Azam, Three leaves in a row as this one is little wide outside off. |
| 61.6 : S Broad to Azam, Single on the last ball. Broad goes for the fuller inswinger. Babar flicks it towards deep square leg for a single. |
| James Anderson will bowl from the other end. 19-5-40-2 are his figures so far. |
| 62.1 : J Anderson to Azam, Anderson starts with a good length ball outside off, Babar shoulders arms. Called no ball by the third umpire. Quite a big one from Anderson. |
| J Anderson to B Azam, Fuller and just outside off, Babar finds mid off. |
| 62.2 : J Anderson to Azam, Good length ball around off, solidly defended. |
| 62.3 : J Anderson to Azam, Fuller and around off, blocked. |
| 62.4 : J Anderson to Azam, Fuller and outside off, a leave from Babar. |
| 62.5 : J Anderson to Azam, On the pads, Babar clips it towards deep square leg for a run. |
| 62.6 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Shortish and outside off, Rizwan lets it go to Buttler. |
| 63.1 : S Broad to Azam, In the channel outside off, Babar shoulders arms. |
| 63.2 : S Broad to Azam, Down the leg side, Babar looks to nudge it to fine leg but misses. |
| 63.3 : S Broad to Azam, Around off, played towards mid on by Babar. |
| 63.4 : Broad to Azam, OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Broad with the breakthrough for England. Babar falls 3 short of a fine 50. Perfect line and length from Broad. Bowls it just behind good length and makes it move away as it gets closer to the bat. Babar is a bit squared up as he looks to defend. An outside edge is induced and the ball goes behind. A straightforward take for Buttler. Babar thought to review it for a second but took the long walk back eventually. A solid knock from Babar but he needed to st |
| Yasir Shah is the new man in. Batted well in the last game. Pakistan need similar contribution from him. |
| 63.5 : S Broad to Shah, Gets him driving on the first ball. Full and outside off, Yasir looks to drive it through the covers but misses. |
| 63.6 : S Broad to Shah, Dot to end the successful over from Broad. Bowls it fuller and around off, Yasir is on the front foot to defend. |
| 64.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Ripper! Short and just around off, Rizwan looks to defend off his back foot but the ball zips past the outside edge. |
| 64.2 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Shortish and around off, pushed towards the third slip fielder. |
| 64.3 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Fuller and around off, blocked. |
| 64.4 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Full and on the pads, Rizwan flicks it to deep mid-wicket and gets two before the deep square leg fielder can get around. |
| 64.5 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Down the leg side, Rizwan fails to connect his flick. |
| Broad thinks there is some issue with the ball. He lobs it to the umpire who checks and seems to be happy with it as he returns it to Broad. |
| 64.6 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Shortish and around off, forced towards the point region. |
| 65.1 : S Broad to Shah, Fuller and around off and middle, Yasir looks to flick but gets a leading edge back to the bowler. |
| 65.2 : S Broad to Shah, On the pads, Yasir looks to work it on the leg side this time but misses again. This time the ball hits the thigh pad and goes towards square leg. A leg bye taken. |
| 65.3 : Broad to M Rizwan, Was that a chance? Broad thinks so and the umpire's agree too. A bouncer down the leg side. Rizwan looks to pull but gets a glove to it. Buttler throws himself to his left and tries to catch. He gets hands to it but can't catch it. It parries to fine leg and a couple of runs taken. |
| 65.4 : S Broad to Rizwan, Angled in from around off, Rizwan looks to defend but misses to get hit high on the pads. |
| 65.5 : S Broad to Rizwan, On the pads, Rizwan flick it to deep square leg powerfully. Wants two but the fielder there is quick so he settles for a single. |
| 65.6 : S Broad to Shah, Shortish and on the body, Yasir fends it towards short fine leg. |
| 66.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Good length ball outside off, Rizwan is rooted to the crease as he looks to drive but the ball comes back in and beats the inside edge. |
| 66.2 : J Anderson to Rizwan, On the pads, flicked to fine leg for a single. Rizwan wanted second once again but it was not on offer. |
| 66.3 : J Anderson to Shah, Around off, blocked off the back foot. |
| 66.4 : J Anderson to Shah, Beaten! This is full and just outside off, Shah pokes at it but is beaten. |
| 66.5 : J Anderson to Shah, Shortish and around middle, Yasir tucks it towards the leg side for a quick single to get off the mark. |
| 66.6 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Short and outside off, Rizwan forces it towards point and calls for the single but Yasir sends him back. Seems like he wants to keep the strike with himself for most of the balls. |
| 67.1 : S Broad to Shah, Shortish and around off, Yasir keeps it out. |
| 67.2 : S Broad to Shah, Loose from Yasir. Full and outside off, Yasir looks to drill it through the covers but misses. |
| 67.3 : S Broad to Y Shah, FOUR! This time he connects and bags his first boundary! Broad once again pitches it up and outside off, Yasir reaches out and smashes it through point for a boundary. |
| 67.4 : S Broad to Shah, That is a ripper! Shortish and outside off, comes back in sharply as Yasir is beaten off his front foot. There is an appeal from behind the wickets but Broad tells he didn't hear anythig. You don't see that often, i.e., Broad saying no for a DRS. |
| 67.5 : S Broad to Shah, Good length ball outside off, Yasir looks to leave it alone but is late in doing so. The ball takes the outside edge and goes to the slip fielder on the bounce. |
| 67.6 : S Broad to Shah, Play and a miss again! This will frustrate England more though. Another fullish one outside off, Yasir goes after it only to get beaten. |
| 68.1 : J Anderson to M Rizwan, Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single. |
| 68.2 : J Anderson to Shah, On a good length on off, Shah blocks it off the back foot. |
| 68.3 : J Anderson to Shah, OUT! Caught! Another wicket for Anderson and his good game continues. Jimmy goes full and just around off, the ball shapes away. Yasir Shah goes for the big drive but the ball takes the outside edge and goes to the right of Buttler who makes no mistake. 3 for Anderson and you can feel the talks of retirement taking a back seat once again. The misery piles on the tourists and 200 looks too far ahead now. |
| Shaheen Afridi is the next batsman in. |
| 68.4 : J Anderson to Afridi, Outside off, left alone. |
| 68.5 : J Anderson to Afridi, Fuller and around off, Shaheen keeps it out. |
| 68.6 : J Anderson to Afridi, Shortish and around off, Shaheen blocks it nicely. A run and a wicket from the over. |
| 69.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out. |
| 69.2 : Broad to Rizwan, Short delivery down the leg side, Rizwan looks to pull but misses it. The bowler appeals for caught behind but the umpire shakes his head. |
| 69.3 : S Broad to Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards fine leg for a run. |
| 69.4 : S Broad to Afridi, On a good length and outside off, Afridi leaves it alone. |
| 69.5 : S Broad to Afridi, Full delivery on off, Afridi drives it to point. |
| 69.6 : S Broad to Afridi, Good length delivery on off, Afridi blocks it off the front foot. |
| 70.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it through square leg for a single. |
| 70.2 : J Anderson to Afridi, On a good length and outside off, Afridi shoulders arms to this one. |
| 70.3 : J Anderson to Afridi, BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Afridi looks to drive but misses it. |
| 70.4 : J Anderson to Afridi, BEATEN AGAIN! On a good length and outside off, Afridi looks to push but misses it. |
| 70.5 : J Anderson to Afridi, Short delivery outside off, Afridi looks to defend but misses it. |
| 70.6 : J Anderson to Afridi, Length delivery on middle, Afridi flicks it to mid-wicket. |
| 71.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, On a length and down the leg side, Rizwan looks to flick but misses it. |
| 71.2 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it through square leg for a run. |
| 71.3 : Sam Curran to Afridi, Good length delivery outside off, Afridi offers no shot to this one. |
| 71.4 : Sam Curran to Afridi, Full delivery on off, Afridi looks to push but misses it. |
| 71.5 : Sam Curran to Afridi, On a good length on off, Afridi blocks it off the back foot. |
| 71.6 : Sam Curran to Afridi, Outside off, Shaheen leaves it alone. |
| Chris Woakes is back on. |
| 72.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short delivery on off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad. |
| 72.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on off, Rizwan plays it to covers. |
| 72.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it towards fine leg for a run. |
| 72.4 : C Woakes to Afridi, BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Afridi looks to defend but misses it. |
| 72.5 : C Woakes to Afridi, Good length delivery outside off, Afridi lets it go. |
| 72.6 : C Woakes to Afridi, Short and outside off, Afridi looks to punch but misses it. |
| 73.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out. |
| 73.2 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Length delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it to square leg. |
| 73.3 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, BEATEN! Full delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to drive but misses it. |
| 73.4 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Short delivery down the leg side, Rizwan looks to pull but misses it. |
| 73.5 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, On a length on off, Rizwan punches it through point for a run. |
| Has the ball carried to Root at first slip? The soft signal is OUT! So there needs to be a conclusive evidence to overturn that. |
| 73.6 : Curran to Afridi, NOT OUT! The ball carried but Root did not manage to hold onto it as it hit the turf behind his palms. Very good use of the technology and the third umpire must be credited for this decision. The on-field call is overturned. Full ball on off and middle and coming in to the southpaw. Shaheen looks to defend but gets a thick outside edge low to first slip. Root takes it but he is not sure whether it is carried or not. The on-field umpires get together and send it upstairs w |
| 74.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on off, Rizwan punches it towards the off side. |
| 74.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Full delivery on leg, Rizwan looks to flick but gets hit on the pads. The bowler appeals for lbw but the umpire shakes his head. |
| 74.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan offers no shot to this one. |
| 74.4 : C Woakes to M Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it to mid on. |
| 74.5 : C Woakes to S Afridi, OUT! Run Out! No need to go upstairs as Shaheen is well short of his crease. Full ball on leg, Rizwan looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pads. There is a stifled appeal and the ball goes to second slip to Sibley. Shaheen disastrously, without any logical explanation comes running out to steal a run but Rizwan sends him back. Sibley hits bull's eye at the non striker's end and though Afridi dives he is well short of his crease. A typical fast bowling tail en |
| Mohammad Abbas joins Rizwan out in the middle. Can he hang in there? |
| 74.6 : C Woakes to M Rizwan, FOUR! Aggressive from Rizwan and in the last ball of the over he has opted for a boundary rather than a single. Woakes bangs it in a bit shortish in length, Rizwan comes down and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary. |
| Is Abbas in? It looks like unlike Shaheen, Abbas has managed to get back in time. Let's see what the replays have to say. |
| 75.1 : Sam Curran to Abbas, Safe this time! Full on off, Abbas flicks it to the right of Broad at mid on. Abbas comes down for a single but Rizwan sends him back. Broad sends the throw at the keeper. Buttler gets to the stumps and dislodges but Abbas is in. The square leg umpire for safety goes to the T.V. umpire and he confirms he is well in. |
| 75.2 : Sam Curran to Abbas, On off, Abbas manages to keep it out. |
| 75.3 : Sam Curran to Abbas, Length ball on off and middle, Abbas tucks it to the leg side. |
| 75.4 : Sam Curran to Abbas, Good leave! Fullish ball outside off, Abbas shoulders arms to it. The cherry comes back in but once it goes past the stump. |
| 75.5 : Sam Curran to Abbas, Length ball on off, Abbas plays it to point and looks for a run but Rizwan turns it down. |
| Review time! England have all their reviews remaining and decided to use one of them. There were two noises and the on-field decision is not out. Let's see if there is any bat involved. |
| 75.6 : Sam Curran to Abbas, NOT OUT! A clear inside edge and Abbas manages to survive the over. Full ball on middle and leg, Abbas looks to defend but gets hit on the pad. There are two noises and the umpire turns down the appeal. Root has a chat with his teammates and decides to take it upstairs. Replays show a big edge and England lose one of their 3 reviews. |
| 76.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Shortish and around middle, Rizwan tucks it towards the leg side. |
| 76.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Play and a miss! Good length ball around off, comes back in nicely. Rizwan looks to defend but is beaten. |
| 76.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Slower yorker! Rizwan does well to keep it out towards mid on. Thought for the single but decided against it. |
| 76.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Woakes goes short and Rizwan takes him on. Pulls him nicely to deep square leg. Bess there fields with a slide and relays the ball to Curran who throws it to the keeper. Two taken during this process. |
| 76.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short and outside off, Rizwan gently pulls it wide of the mid on fielder for a single. |
| 76.6 : C Woakes to Abbas, Landed on middle on a good length, Abbas keeps it out. |
| 77.1 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Good length ball on middle, Rizwan flicks it to short mid-wicket. |
| 77.2 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, FOUR! Useful runs and gets them closer to 200. Length ball outside off, Rizwan makes use of the width and cuts it through point for a boundary. |
| 77.3 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Fuller and around off, Rizwan keeps it out. |
| 77.4 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, FOUR! Delicate! Shortish and just outside off, Rizwan stays back and guides it over the slip cordon to bag another boundary. |
| 77.5 : Sam Curran to Rizwan, Single on the 5th ball. Poor from Curran as he bowls this on the pads. Rizwan tucks it towards fine leg and gets to the other end. Abbas has to survive one ball. Can he? |
| 77.6 : Sam Curran to Abbas, Well, he can! A wasted ball down the leg side. Abbas tries to tickle it fine but misses. |
| 78.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Play and a miss! Short delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to cut but misses it. |
| 78.2 : C Woakes to M Rizwan, FOUR! Brilliantly done! Fuller and just outside off, Rizwan drives it on the up and beats the cover fielder. It is wide of Anderson at long off. Rizwan moves to 44. |
| 78.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out. |
| 78.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, This time he takes the single on the 4th ball as Woakes bangs it short and outside off. Rizwan goes on the back foot and guides it through point for a run. |
| 78.5 : C Woakes to Abbas, Fuller and around off, blocks it well. |
| 78.6 : C Woakes to Abbas, Solidly blocked! Slightly shortish and around off, Abbas is behind the line of the ball to keep it out. |
| Stuart Broad is back on. |
| 79.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, On a good length on off, Rizwan stands tall and defends it off the back foot. |
| 79.2 : S Broad to M Rizwan, Full delivery on off, Rizwan drives it towards long off but Rizwan denies it. |
| 79.3 : S Broad to Rizwan, Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan leaves it alone. |
| 79.4 : S Broad to Rizwan, Short delivery down the leg side, Rizwan looks to pull but misses it. It goes towards Buttler where he jumps and tries to collect the ball but it goes just past his fingertips. The batsmen take a single. The umpire gives it as a bye. |
| 79.5 : S Broad to Abbas, Outside off, Abbas lets it go. |
| 79.6 : S Broad to Abbas, Length delivery down the leg side, Abbas looks to flick but misses it. |
| The second new ball is available and England have decided to take it. Woakes will bowl the first over with the new cherry. |
| 80.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards the leg side. |
| 80.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, FOUR BYES! Pakistan have managed to cross 200! Woakes loses control of the ball and bowls one down the leg side, Rizwan looks to flick but misses. It keeps going away from Buttler who has no chance of stopping that. |
| 80.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, BEATEN! Short and outside off, Rizwan looks to chase it but misses it. |
| 80.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Good length delivery on off, Rizwan offers a solid defense on this one. |
| 80.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Rizwan looks to swing at it but misses it. |
| 80.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, WIDE! Woakes bowls it wide and outside off, Rizwan looks to play at it but misses it. |
| C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards square leg for a run. |
| 81.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, Short delivery on off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets it off the gloves. It goes towards gully. The batsmen cross ends. |
| 81.2 : S Broad to Abbas, On a good length on off, Abbas keeps it out. |
| 81.3 : S Broad to Abbas, Short delivery on middle, Abbas looks to duck but gets hit on the thigh pad. |
| 81.4 : S Broad to Abbas, Length delivery down the leg side, Abbas offers no shot to this one. |
| 81.5 : S Broad to Abbas, On a good length on off, Abbas defends it out. |
| 81.6 : S Broad to Abbas, Good length delivery outside off, Abbas shoulders arms to this one. |
| 82.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Good length delivery on off, Rizwan defends it off the back foot. |
| 82.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it towards mid off. |
| 82.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on off, Rizwan taps it to point. |
| 82.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to cut but gets a bottom edge on this one. It goes towards the slip region. |
| 82.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a length on middle, Rizwan looks to flick but gets it off the pads. It goes towards fine leg. The fielder in the deep does well to stop it with a slide just before the ropes. The batsmen get two runs. The umpire gives it as leg byes. |
| 82.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards fine leg for a single. |
| 83.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, BEATEN! Beauty of a delivery! On a good length and outside off, Rizwan looks to defend but misses it due to the seam movement on this one. |
| 0.0 : Run out appeal referred upstairs! |
| Superb knock from the wicket-keeper so far. He will now aim to smash a few out of the park and score as many as he could. Frustration for England continues. |
| 83.2 : Broad to Rizwan, NOT OUT! Abbas is safe and it is a fine half-century from Rizwan! Very vital runs from the bat of Rizwan. Short and wide outside off, Rizwan cuts it through point and calls for a couple straightaway! Abbas is little slow in taking off as the throw goes to his end. Broad collects the ball and takes the bails off as Abbas tries to make it in with a dive. The third umpire has been called in and replays show that Abbas made it in the end. Quality knock from Abbas so far and he |
| 83.3 : S Broad to Rizwan, Shortish and around off, blocked. |
| 83.4 : S Broad to Rizwan, Short and on middle, pulled to deep square leg for a single. |
| Review time! England have two reviews and they have decided to use it as they feel they have trapped Abbas LBW. Let's see what the replays have to say. |
| 83.5 : S Broad to Abbas, NOT OUT! Umpire's call on hitting the wickets. England keep their review. Good length ball around off, comes back in a hint. Abbas looks to defend but misses to connect. The ball hits the pads and England players go up in appeal but not out says the umpire. Root asks for the review. No bat involved, confirms the Ultra Edge. Hitting the wickets? No, just clipping, so, umpire's call it is. Abbas stays to continue battle. England keep their review. |
| 83.6 : S Broad to Abbas, Edged! Frustration continues for England! A good length ball just outside off, Abbas plays at it. He gets a thick outside edge which bounces just short of Root at first slip and goes to third man. Two more important runs. |
| 84.1 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short delivery outside off, Rizwan cuts it through point. The batsmen pick up a couple. |
| 84.2 : C Woakes to Rizwan, On a good length on off, Rizwan defends it off the back foot. |
| 84.3 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Length delivery on off, Rizwan plays it to covers. |
| The light meter is out and looks like we will have to go off. England would not mind this as they were giving away a few vital runs. Also, the umpires have taken TEA on DAY 2. |
| Brilliant effort from Rizwan and Abbas to take Pakistan over 200. Especially, Rizwan. He has battled hard to add 39 runs with the no. 10 whose contribution is just 2 runs but he has negotiated the English bowlers really nicely. |
| It looked like England will roll over Pakistan well ahead of 200 when they got wickets early in the session. Broad got rid of Babar 3 short of 50 and then Pakistan lost a couple of wickets quickly. However, Rizwan stayed at his end and scored vital runs. England looked frustrated as they failed to get past these two. Let's hope when we return for the final session, the light is improved and we get to witness another fine session of play! |
| ... Day 2, Session 3 ... |
| Right! We are back for the final session! The lights got better. The players are back on the field. Rizwan to face Woakes first. Here we go... |
| 84.4 : C Woakes to Rizwan, A good length ball outside off, left alone. |
| 84.5 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Beauty to end the over! A length ball around off, Rizwan pokes at it to get beaten. |
| 84.6 : C Woakes to Rizwan, Short and outside off, Rizwan lets it be. |
| Stuart Broad with the ball from the other end. He has got 6 balls at Abbas. |
| Abbas has been given out LBW! He goes for the review. Looked out. Let's see if he survives. |
| 85.1 : S Broad to Abbas, OUT! LBW! Three reds it is, so Abbas has to go. It looked plumb in real time and the DRS confirmed the same. A fuller one around off, Abbas looks to keep it out but misses to get hit on the pads. They appeal and the umpire raises his finger. Abbas goes to his partner and signals the 'T', probably just for the sake of it. Time for the replays. Clearly no bat, says the third umpire. It is hitting the wickets as well, so the DRS doesn't save Abbas. A vital stand for Pakistan |
| 0.0 : Naseem Shah is the new man in. |
| 85.2 : S Broad to Shah, Good length ball around off, Naseem works it towards the leg side and gets to the other end. |
| 85.3 : S Broad to Rizwan, Rizwan comes down the track and slams it over mid off. He does not time it well but gets a couple as there is no one in the deep there. |
| 85.4 : S Broad to Rizwan, That is the line England should keep bowling to Rizwan. Good length ball around off, in the channel of uncertainty. Rizwan looks to defend but misses. |
| 85.5 : S Broad to Rizwan, FOUR! Glorious, absolutely glorious from Rizwan! Broad overpitches it slightly on off and swings it away. Rizwan gets on his front foot and drives it with the swing through covers to perfection for a boundary. |
| 85.6 : S Broad to Rizwan, Now he gets a single and keeps the strike. Length ball around off, Rizwan taps it behind point and takes the vital run. |
| Umpire Richard Kettleborough has the light meter and he looks very unpleased. The umpires are having a word. Frustrating sight for any cricket fan as the umpires takes the players off. Another stoppage due to Bad Light. |
| So, just 9 balls bowled so far in this session. England would be pleased to get rid of the frustrating stand between Rizwan and Abbas. It was Broad who trapped Abbas in front of the wicket to send him packing. Rizwan though is still there and if and when we return, he will look to swing hard and find a few more boundaries. Stay with us for the further update. |
| UPDATE 1710 local (1610 GMT) - Nothing positive to update as bad light keeps us all at bay. Let's hope it gets better as we have quite some time left before Stumps. For now, let's wait! |
| UPDATE 1735 local (1635 GMT) - Well, the wait continues. No rain at all but light remains an issue. Can't really risk the players under such light with the red cherry. So, let's hope the sun sneaks out from somewhere and we witness a few more overs of play! |
| UPDATE 1758 local (1658 GMT) - Right! We are about to enter into the final hour of Day 2. There is no improvement with regards to light. So, sit tight and wait for the next update! |
| UPDATE 1830 local (1730 GMT) - So, in all likelihood, this should be out final update regarding the weather! It's good to be optimistic but with just around 30 minutes left, don't think we will have any action on Day 2. Stay with us for the final word. |
| There you go! Didn't take much time. Rain and bad light on Day 1 won the contest together! On Day 2, bad light ditched rain and has taken the center stage to force STUMPS ON DAY 2. |
| We had a delayed start of the first session due to a bit of rain and damp conditions. We got 1 hour of play eventually that belonged to Pakistan as Babar and Rizwan saw off the challenge calmly. The 2nd session began on time and it was England who struck a few times and threatened to bowl Pakistan well short of 200. However, Rizwan stayed and with a fine 50 helped Pakistan go well over 200 with support from Abbas. |
| After failing to find any success in the curtailed first session, England returned with a different plan as they bowled fuller to the batters. Broad removed Babar to break the promising stand. They struck twice before giving away the advantage as they went easy on Rizwan (allowed him easy singles) and tried to remove Abbas. That didn't do any good as the duo added vital 39 runs. Light deteriorated and we went off. We returned for the final session where only 9 balls were bowled but Broad got the |
| That's all then! 45.4 overs on Day 1 and just 40.2 on Day 2. Pakistan would be the happier side after today's performance. With 1 wicket still to go, Rizwan will look to tonk a few more out of the park to take Pakistan further. England will look to get rid of the last wicket quickly to close the innings. And again, for all these things and any sort of action to happen, we will need support from weather god. As per the forecast, they are not too happy and will look to play a spoilsport on Day 3 a |
| ... Day 3, Session 1 ... |
| 2 days over and not even 90 overs bowled. As we get ready to begin Day 3, the first question will be about the weather. Well, to be honest, the forecast isn't promising but we can always keep hopes. We will do that again as Rizwan will try to score a few more vital runs for his team while the hosts would look to close the innings soon. Welcome everyone to our coverage of Day 3 of the 2nd Test between England and Pakistan. |
| UPDATE 1040 local (0940 GMT) - While we still have 20 minutes for the start time, we have a bad news. The rain has made appearance and the covers are protecting the wicket right now. The light isn't great either. So, like Day 2, most probably, we will not begin on time! Wait for the official word though. |
| UPDATE 1100 local (1000 GMT) - So, it's official then! The start of Day 3 has been delayed due to a light drizzle. The light isn't looking good at the moment. It has gone dark out there. Let's hope things improve and we return with a positive news. |
| UPDATE 1130 local (1030 GMT) - The waiting game continues as the drizzle continues. No improvement in light either! Looks like this wait will be little longer than what we did for the first session on Day 2. Hang in there! |
| UPDATE 1205 local (1105 GMT) - Nothing positive to say! The condition is pretty similar to what it was an hour ago. So, things looking really bleak for action anytime soon. |
| UPDATE 1230 local (1130 GMT) - Read the previous update and keep waiting. That's what we can do as condition remains the way it was. Slight drizzle and poor light. |
| UPDATE 1305 local (1205 GMT) - That's that then! The first session is done and dusted, without any action as the umpires have decided to take an early Lunch. Join us for the second session and pray that things are better when we return. |
| ... Day 3, Session 2 ... |
| UPDATE 1345 local (1245 GMT) - We are back for the second session! But back with the old update only. It continues to drizzle in Southampton and our wait is going to be an extended one. Stay with us for the next update. |
| UPDATE 1420 local (1320 GMT) - Nothing really to say other than sharing the same old thing. It is drizzling and no improvement in light either. Safe to say that the wait is going to be little longer. |
| UPDATE 1450 local (1350 GMT) - Another update which is same as the previous one. However, the rain is almost gone! Fingers crossed! Let's hope we witness some action. |
| UPDATE 1455 local (1355 GMT) - Ok! We have an update that gives us hope. There will be an official inspection at 1530 local which is about 35 minutes from now. Let's hope it gets more clear then and we finally get to see the game. |
| UPDATE 1535 local (1435 GMT) - So, the two umpires are out for inspection! The good news is it's not raining! Hopefully, a positive news coming our way soon. |
| Well, the outcome of the earlier inspection is another inspection at 1615 local! Also, the umpires have taken TEA! Stay tuned for further updates. |
| ... Day 3, Session 3 ... |
| UPDATE 1623 local (1523 GMT) - The inspection time is over but we are yet to get an official word. Stay with us. The umpires are out there inspecting. The covers are firmly placed though. |
| UPDATE 1638 local (1538 GMT) - Well, it remains really bad and looks like the umpires are not really happy with the outfield either. So, not looking encouraging! |
| UPDATE 1645 local (1545 GMT) - So, the umpires want to hang around for a while and see if things get any better! Another inspection at 1715 local. |
| UPDATE 1710 local (1610 GMT) - Well, just before the inspection, rain has arrived. So, this should be the final nail in the coffin. |
| Yes! The final word has come! No play on Day 3 as rain and light kept playing with our patience and emotions throughout the day! Join us at 1100 local (1000 GMT) for the action on Day 4. Not sure if we will have action as the forecast is pretty similar to what we've had. With just 2 days left, getting a result in this game looks tough. Anyway, thanks for hanging in with us! For now, it is goodbye from our side! Take care! |
| ... Day 4, Session 1 ... |
| What an enthralling Day 3 it was! The only trouble was that it happened between rain and light! Both combined and made sure not a single ball was bowled on Day 3! Now, we welcome you to Day 4 with the hope of seeing some action! Will we begin on time? Well, the forecast is not good, not good at all because it says that there will be rain throughout the day. However, there's no rain right now and light is pretty good as well. So, let's hope it remains this way and we begin on time. Fingers crosse |
| Right! Finally, finally, it is time for the action to resume! The players are already out on the field. Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah, the two Pakistani batters stride out to resume the Pakistani innings. James Anderson with the ball. He has asked for some saw dust. Here we go... |
| 86.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Rizwan making his intentions clear! He comes down the track the very first ball and swings hard at this short pitched delivery but misses. |
| 86.2 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Good length ball on off and middle, Rizwan stays behind and blocks it. |
| 86.3 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Length ball around off and shaping away, Rizwan looks to defend but misses. |
| 86.4 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Outside off, Rizwan comes inside his stumps and looks to defend but gets beaten. |
| 86.5 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Better throw from Crawley and Naseem Shah would have been a goner. Length ball on off, Rizwan taps it towards point and takes risky run. Crawley gets to the ball but misses his shy at the keeper's end. |
| 86.6 : J Anderson to Shah, Length ball outside off, Naseem keeps his bat inside the line of the delivery. |
| 87.1 : S Broad to Rizwan, Length ball outside off, Rizwan lets it go. |
| 0.0 : So, after going after the ball on the first ball, Rizwan didn't show much aggression. How will he go about things in Broad's over? Let's see! |
| 87.2 : S Broad to Rizwan, Nips back in this time. Good length ball on off, Rizwan looks to defend but the ball comes in and takes the inside edge of Rizwan's bat and hits him on the pads. |
| 87.3 : S Broad to Rizwan, Length ball shaping away well outside off, Rizwan swings but misses. |
| 87.4 : S Broad to Rizwan, Good length ball on off, MR defends it to point. |
| 87.5 : Broad to Rizwan, Good length ball outside off, Rizwan comes very far across his stumps and looks to flick but the ball hits his thigh pad and goes to the leg side, allowing them to get to the other end. |
| 87.6 : S Broad to Shah, No touching, only seeing and that is how Naseem manages to watch out the final delivery of the over. Good length ball outside off, Rizwan keeps his bat on off pole as the ball goes past him. |
| 88.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, On the pads, Rizwan looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the body. |
| 88.2 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Length ball around off and coming back in. Rizwan looks to defend but gets a French cut which goes towards fine leg. He looks for two straightaway and gets it with ease. |
| 88.3 : J Anderson to Rizwan, On off, Rizwan keeps it out. |
| 88.4 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Good ball. Length ball pitching around off and going away. Rizwan looks to defend thinking it will come in but it does not. |
| 88.5 : Anderson to M Rizwan, EDGED AND FOUR! Length ball on off, Rizwan charges down and looks to go downtown but gets a thick edge and the ball goes over third man for a boundary. Valuable runs these for Pakistan. |
| 88.6 : J Anderson to Rizwan, No single this time and England can start the next over with Naseem on strike. Full around off from Anderson. Rizwan looks to drive it straight but it is an outswinger and it misses the outside edge of Rizwan's willow. |
| 89.1 : S Broad to Shah, Full outside off, Shah looks to defend but misses. |
| 89.2 : S Broad to Shah, This time Broad targets the stump, Naseem manages to block it. |
| 89.3 : S Broad to Shah, Outside off and going away, Naseem keeps his bat on his off pole. |
| 89.4 : S Broad to Shah, Full on off and once again the ball swings away and just misses the outside edge of Naseem's bat. 4 survived, 2 to go. |
| 89.5 : S Broad to Shah, On the pads, Naseem looks to defend but misses and gets hit on the pads. |
| 89.6 : S Broad to Shah, Outside off, too wide to trouble Naseem who is just guarding his stumps. He is not complaining and he survives the over. |
| 90.1 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Good length ball outside off, Rizwan looks to punch it on the up but misses as the ball moves away. |
| 90.2 : J Anderson to Rizwan, Connects with thin air again! A length ball outside off, Rizwan throws kitchen sink but no connection with the ball. |
| 90.3 : J Anderson to Rizwan, FOUR! Connects this time and bags another vital four runs! Short and wide outside off, Rizwan slams it through backward point to move into the 70s. |
| 90.4 : J Anderson to M Rizwan, Anderson goes full and Rizwan strokes it straight to mid on. |
| 90.5 : J Anderson to Rizwan, There's the quick single! Excellent from Rizwan! Leaves Naseem to survive for just one ball. Anderson angles the length ball from off, Rizwan tucks it towards the leg side and gets to the other end. |
| 90.6 : J Anderson to Shah, Naseem keeps it out! In fact he has flicked it to deep square leg nicely but Rizwan will not take any run. |
| 91.1 : S Broad to M Rizwan, On a good length on middle, Rizwan looks to defend but gets an inside edge onto the pads. |
| 91.2 : S Broad to Rizwan, OUT! Caught! Rizwan's brilliant innings comes to an end and finally after 4 days, England have finally managed to bowl out Pakistan. Length ball on the pads, Rizwan looks to flick but the ball comes in and takes the leading edge of his willow. It goes high in the air to point, Crawley there keeps his eyes on the ball and takes the catch. Broad finishes with a 4-wicket haul and Pakistan ALL OUT FOR 236! |
| Right! 32 balls this morning for England to get rid of Rizwan and close the innings! Just 13 runs for Pakistan but what an incredible recovery it has been from Pakistan to post the kind of total they have. All credit to Rizwan for hanging in with the tail-enders for these important runs. The condition was never easy for batting as it was overcast on Day 1 and Day 2. Pakistan started poorly, recovered, batted poorly again but England failed to deliver a final punch and it allowed Pakistan to reco |
| On Day 1, after opting to bat first, Pakistan got off to a poor start as they lost the last game's centurion quite early. Abid Ali along with skipper Azhar added 50-pus and consolidated the innings. However, with rain and bad light interruptions, they lost the plot and lost a few quick wickets. Babar and Rizwan then added useful runs before rain cut short Day 1. On Day 2, the rain didn't allow the timely start of Day 2. When we finally got some action, Babar and Rizwan calmly went through that p |
| England made a comeback in the 2nd session as Broad removed Babar just after Lunch. Pakistan lost 2 more quickly but Rizwan and Abbas got stuck and added vital 39 runs and frustrated England. Rizwan got to his 50 and smashed a few more before we went off for bad light and never returned until this morning on Day 4. Broad eventually finished with a 4-fer while Anderson got 3. |
| So, 236 on the board for Pakistan! An excellent total from them! How will the English batters respond? Will we see the Pakistani bowlers run through the batting lineup? Join us in a bit for England's innings. |
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