Abbas, Ali put Pakistan in control after England’s rain-hit opening day

Pakistan’s bowlers made the most of helpful conditions at Lord’s as Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali combined to leave England struggling at 248 for 9 at stumps on the opening day.

Returning captain Babar Azam chose to bowl first under overcast skies, and Abbas quickly justified the decision. The experienced seamer repeatedly found the ideal length, troubling England’s batters throughout the opening session.

After rain delayed the start, England initially looked comfortable, with Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay finding boundaries. However, Gay’s dismissal in the fifth over triggered a collapse. Abbas then removed Duckett, claiming his 900th first-class wicket, before trapping Joe Root lbw soon afterwards.

Pakistan’s seamers maintained relentless pressure, forcing numerous false shots. Mohammad Ali added to the damage by dismissing Harry Brook before lunch, leaving England in trouble.

Jordan Cox and Dan Lawrence then steadied the innings, surviving a difficult spell that included dropped chances and a series of no-balls. Cox eventually reached a fighting 55 before being brilliantly caught by substitute Salman Agha.

Jamie Smith provided England with another crucial contribution. After being dropped on 19, he capitalised on the reprieve to score a composed 61 and help England move closer to 250.

Ali returned in the evening to swing the momentum back Pakistan’s way, dismissing Smith and Ollie Robinson in the same over. Abbas then completed the dismissal of Jofra Archer as England slipped to 248 for 9.

Bad light brought an early end to proceedings, with only 56 overs possible on the opening day.

Brief scores: England 248/9 (Jamie Smith 61, Jordan Cox 55; Mohammad Abbas 4-56, Mohammad Ali 3-67) vs Pakistan

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