England pile on 453, take 320-run lead over Pakistan in Birmingham Test

England tightened their grip on the third Test against Pakistan after posting 453 in their first innings to secure a commanding 320-run lead.

Pakistan had earlier been bowled out for 133, with Saud Shakeel top-scoring with 43 runs in a disappointing batting display.

During their innings, Mohammad Abbas contributed 21 runs, while Rizwanullah made 11 and Azaan Owais added nine. Babar Azam scored seven, Shan Masood and Mohammad Imran made five each, Ghazi Ghori scored four, Abdullah Shafique managed three, while Saim Ayub was dismissed for a duck.

From England side, the hosts’ pacer Josh Tongue starred with the ball, taking four wickets, while Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer claimed three wickets each.

England produced a dominant batting performance after they began with their innings. Harry Brook led the way with 75 runs, Jamie Smith scored 69, Dan Lawrence made 65, Emilio Gay added 60 and Ollie Robinson contributed 50.

Jofra Archer remained unbeaten on 32 as England were bowled out for 453 in 89 overs.

For Pakistan, Rizwanullah was the most successful bowler, taking four wickets for 148 runs in 23 overs. Mohammad Imran and Mohammad Ali picked up two wickets each.

England’s first-innings lead of 320 runs has left Pakistan facing an uphill task to avoid a series whitewash.

Pakistan handed Test debuts to pace all-rounder Mohammad Imran, fast bowler Rizwanullah and wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori in the third and final Test, while Saim Ayub returned to the Test side after a long absence.

Currently, Pakistan have begun their second innings but lost both Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique for ducks, with Ollie Robinson striking twice.