EDGBASTON, England : England moved closer to a series whitewash after Pakistan’s fragile batting collapsed for 133 on the opening day of the third test at Edgbaston on Wednesday.
Pakistan, who have failed to score 200 in any innings of the series, were bowled out in just 33.5 overs after England’s four-man pace attack tore through their lineup.
Josh Tongue claimed 4-42, while Ollie Robinson took 3-15 and Jofra Archer 3-25 as Pakistan slumped to 26-4 inside the opening hour after being sent in.
Saim Ayub, recalled after a 21-month absence, was trapped lbw by Robinson, who claimed his 100th test wicket in his 24th match. Azan Awais was then caught at wide mid-on off Archer for nine before Abdullah Shafique fell for three.
Pakistan captain Shan Masood miscued a pull to mid-on off Archer before Tongue removed Babar Azam for seven in his first over. The fast bowler then dismissed debutant wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori and Mohammad Imran to leave Pakistan 100-7 at lunch.
Debutant Razaullah, 21, briefly enjoyed a dream start to his test career when he dismissed Joe Root with his fourth delivery as England began their reply.
But Emilio Gay and Harry Brook put the hosts in control with a century partnership as England closed on 156-4, a lead of 23 runs.
Saud Shakeel, who scored 97 at Lord’s in the second test, top-scored for Pakistan with 43 from 47 balls. Their highest partnership was the 26-run last-wicket stand between Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali.
England’s openers were also tested before the close, with Abbas dismissing Ben Duckett and Ali removing Jordan Cox.
“It was an unbelievable performance from everyone,” Tongue said. “Even if the pitch is doing more, I think bowling a team out for just over 100 is an unbelievable effort. We’re in a strong position.”
Pakistan made sweeping changes after their second-test defeat, with seven players sent home and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and assistant Umar Gul dismissed.
