Mohammad Abbas makes Lord’s honours board as England close in on Test win

Mohammad Abbas’ achievement came as Pakistan struggled badly in their second innings.

The 36-year-old fast bowler took 5-57 in 22 overs as England were bowled out for 208. He then struck twice in four balls before Jofra Archer removed Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

England set a huge target

England had set Pakistan a target of 389 runs for victory. Pakistan reached 53-3 by lunch but still needed another 336 runs to pull off an unlikely win.

A victory at Lord’s would require Pakistan to break a major record. The highest successful fourth-innings chase at the ground is the West Indies’ 344-1 against England in 1984.

Robinson troubles Pakistan again

Ollie Robinson once again caused serious problems for Pakistan’s batting. He had figures of 2-13 after taking 4-11 in Pakistan’s first innings, when they were dismissed for only 110.

Azan Awais was trapped lbw by Robinson before Abdullah Shafique was bowled for a duck. Archer then dismissed Babar with a short delivery that the Pakistan captain tried to pull but only edged towards Jordan Cox.

Pakistan face uphill battle

Pakistan’s hopes of drawing the three-match series already looked weak after their first-innings collapse. Shan Masood was unbeaten on 15 while Saud Shakeel had made 23 not out at lunch.

Abbas had come close to the Lord’s honours board before, taking four wickets in an innings three times. His latest five-wicket haul finally earned him a place among players who have achieved major Test milestones at the historic ground.

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Ali had earlier kept some hope alive by saying, “Miracles do happen in cricket,” and adding, “It’ll be a difficult task but not impossible.” However, the team now faces a much tougher challenge as England push for a series-clinching victory.

Abbas’ performance was a major personal achievement for the Pakistan bowler. But Pakistan’s weak batting has left England in a strong position.

The biggest problem is the huge target and the early loss of three wickets. Unless Pakistan’s remaining batters produce a remarkable partnership, England appear well placed to win the second Test.

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