2nd Test, Southampton, August 13, 2020, 03:30 PM
Pakistan
236/10(91.2ov)
England
110/4(43.1ov)
England drew with Pakistan
Man of the Match
Mohammad Rizwan
Commentry
That is it from this Test. England cannot lose the series now. Unfortunately we hardly got much cricket from the second Test as it was marred by rain and bad light. The third Test is not far away. The final Test will begin on Friday, 21st August. The game will begin at 1100 local (1000 GMT). We hope to see you then and hopefully with a lot more of cricketing action than weather updates. Till then, goodbye and take care!
Man of the Match, Mohammad Rizwan says, he enjoyed his knock, it was unfortunate the whole game couldn't be played and he was looking forward to it. Further adds it is not easy keeping in England but he has worked hard and he hopes he can continue that. Ends by saying he is looking forward to the next game and he is positive and confident his team can do well.
England skipper, Joe Root says that the boys did the best they could. Adds they were disappointed not to get much of it but is happy they are 1-0 up. Credits Crawley for his innings as it is a young top-order and feels that he played well. Says that they can start the game 30 minutes early in England. Credits the groundstaff for their hard work as he says that hardly see bad light play such a part in all 5 days. On having pink ball for Tests, Root says that there is a time and place for pink ball and says is not sure of using it in between of a Test match. Suggests that maybe a different shade of red ball could be useful. Tells everyone in the squad is fit and is hay to have a lot of choice to chose from. Tells the last game is a huge one as he wants to finish the summer on a high and end the series as 2-0.
Pakistan skipper, Azhar Ali says that it has been frustrating for both teams and feels the game was set up nicely as he thought they had a good total but admits unfortunately weather was the winner. Says he expected the heat to play a part but the weather changed very quickly and the guys kept fighting against the quality of Broad and Anderson. On personal form, he says he felt good as his balance in the first Test was not good but he felt good in this Test but rues not to have converted his start. Laughs and says the best thing out of this Test was the bowlers did not have to bowl much.
Not a lot you can write about this game! Most of the match passed away in hoping for the weather to clear. There were still a few highlights like Rizwan's knock with the tail. Abid Ali's fight against the new ball. Broad's four-fer and also Pakistan's 5 overs with the new ball. This could well have been an exciting game had there been no rain but we weren't fortunate to witness one. Stay tuned for the presentation.
England declare and so have the handshakes have been done! The game ends in a draw! What more can you expect when we have not even had one full day of cricket. However, this small session was fun to watch. We saw some solid batting from Sibley and Crawley before Abbas weaved his magic. Overall though it has been a frustrating Test but it ended with us getting to watch some cricket.
43.1
.
Good length ball outside off, Buttler looks to defend but misses and looks like that will be it from this Test.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yasir Shah 30/1(11)
42.6
.
On off, Root keeps it out.
42.5
.
Floated delivery on middle, Root defends it off the back foot.
42.4
.
On off, Root drives it to covers.
42.3
.
Full delivery on off, Root drives it to mid off.
42.2
.
Flighted delivery on middle, Root defends it off the back foot.
42.1
.
Tossed up delivery on off, Root keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
3
0
Mohammad Abbas 28/2(14)
41.6
.
Good length delivery on off, Buttler blocks it off the back foot.
41.5
.
Outside off, Jos offers no shot to this one.
41.4
.
On a good length on off, Buttler looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad. The bowler appeals for lbw but the umpire shakes his head.
41.3
.
Good length delivery on off, Buttler blocks it off the front foot.
41.2
3
Length delivery on middle, Root flicks it through mid-wicket. The batsmen get three runs.
41.1
.
On a good length on off, Root comes forward and looks to defend but gets hit on the pads. The bowler appeals for lbw but the umpire shakes his head. Replays show there was an inside edge on this one.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yasir Shah 30/1(10)
40.6
.
Outside off, Buttler covers his off pole with his pad and lets it go.
40.5
.
Wrong 'un! It is short on off, Buttler looks to play but misses and gets hit high on the thigh pad.
40.4
.
Tossed up on off, Buttler drives but finds cover.
40.3
.
Gives this air on off, Buttler defends it off the front foot.
40.2
.
Floated on off, Buttler gets on his back foot and blocks it.
40.1
.
Shorter on off, Buttler punches it to cover.
In over# 1
0
0
0
2
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 25/2(13)
39.6
.
Outside off, Root leaves it alone.
39.5
.
Good length ball on off, Root taps it to gully.
39.4
.
On off, Root pushes it to the off side.
39.3
2
Length ball on off and middle and coming in. Root looks to defend but it goes off the inner half of his bat towards mid-wicket and allows them to take two as these two are good between the wickets.
39.2
.
On off, Root pushes it to cover.
39.1
.
Wow! Good length ball on off, it swings away and bounces a bit extra off the deck. Root looks to defend but the ball goes just outside off. Root is surprised by it and has a smile on his face.
In over# 1
0
0
0W
1
0
0
Yasir Shah 30/1(9)
38.6
.
Tossed up on off and middle, Buttler plays it to the right of mid on.
38.5
.
Floated on off, Buttler blocks it.
Jos Buttler is the new man in.
38.4
W
OUT! LBW! It hit his pad first and that was always going to be marching order from there as it hit his front pad when he was deep in his crease. Short and quicker, it is flat as well. Pope is taken by surprise as he gets on his back foot to defend but the ball hits his pad before the inside edge of his bat. The Pakistan players appeal and the umpire raises his finger. Pope looks in doubt but decides to take the review. Replays roll in and Ultra Edge shows that the ball hit the pad before his bat. Time for the Ball Tracker and it shows three reds. Pope has to walk back and he takes away a review with him.
Pope has been adjudged LBW and he does not look too happy. He has taken the review. Let's see if it hit his bat first.
38.3
1
Slow and short leg spinner around off, Root punches it to cover-point and eases to the other end.
38.2
.
Tossed up on the stumps, Root gets forward and keeps it out.
38.1
.
Floated on off, JR defends it.
In over# 1
4
0
0
0
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 23/2(12)
37.6
4
FOUR! Pope is a sweet timer of the ball and this is an evidence of that. Good length ball coming in, it is on his pads and Ollie flicks it in the gap through mid-wicket for a boundary.
37.5
.
Good length ball on off, Pope gets his body behind it and blocks it.
37.4
.
Length ball on off, Pope taps it back to the left of Abbas.
37.3
.
Outside off, Pope leaves it alone.
37.2
.
Length ball on off, Pope defends it with a dead bat.
37.1
.
On the pads, Pope looks to flick but it hits his glove and then his pad.
In over# 1
0
0
3
1
1
0
Yasir Shah 29/0(8)
36.6
.
On off, Root plays it to covers.
36.5
.
Loopy delivery on middle, Root flicks it towards the leg side.
36.4
3
Short delivery on off, Pope makes room and plays a late cut towards third man. The fielder chases it, slides and does well to stop it just before the ropes. The batsmen get three runs. 100 up for England.
36.3
1
Full delivery on off, Root drives it through mid off for a single.
36.2
1
Flighted delivery on off, Pope comes down the track and plays it towards mid off. The batsmen cross ends.
36.1
.
Tossed up delivery on off, Pope drives it to point.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 19/2(11)
35.6
.
That came back in late! It starts outside off, Root takes a few steps down the track but looks to leave. It comes back in late, hits the top of the pad and goes to the keeper.
35.5
.
The batsman lets the ball go outside his off stump.
35.4
.
One more delivery outside off, Root shoulders arms to this one.
35.3
1
Well bowled! This lands on off and then straightens a touch. Pope looks to defend but it goes off the outer half towards point for one.
35.2
.
On middle, kept out.
35.1
.
Good length and on off, Pope stays back and defends it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
2
0
0
Yasir Shah 24/0(7)
34.6
.
Outside off, Root looks to sweep but misses.
34.5
.
Defended off the back foot by the batsman.
34.4
.
Outside off, it is guided to point.
34.3
2
Shorter and around off, this is pushed through covers for two.
34.2
.
On the stumps, defended nicely.
34.1
.
On off, blocked.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0W
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 18/2(10)
33.6
.
The last ball too is stroked to the man at mid on.
33.5
.
Fuller and on off, Pope strokes it to mid on.
33.4
.
Good length and on off, blocked.
Ollie Pope walks out to bat.
33.3
W
OUT! Sibley is caught down the leg side! AGAIN! We have seen him being strangled down the leg side quite a few times now. The question here is, was it a plan by Abbas? Only he can tell. He though has got his second. Abbas goes wide of the crease again but bowls it down the leg side. Sibley looks to flick, it goes off a faint edge to Rizwan. An appeal and up goes the finger. Sibley walks back after getting off to another start. We would have termed it as an unlucky mode of dismissal but time and again, Sibley tends to be dismissed like that so it is surely an issue he needs to look into.
33.2
.
Abbas goes wide of the crease and angles it into the middle pole. It is kept out.
33.1
.
Good length and on middle, defended.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Yasir Shah 22/0(6)
32.6
.
Short and straight on off, Root defends it to see out the over.
32.5
1
Tossed up on middle, Sibley strokes it to mid on and takes a quick single.
32.4
.
Short and quicker on off, Sibley defends it late off his back foot.
32.3
.
Outside off, Sibley leaves it alone.
32.2
.
Floated on off, Sibley defends it.
32.1
.
Floated on off, Sibley blocks it,
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0W
Mohammad Abbas 18/1(9)
31.6
.
Another beauty to end the over! Good length ball on middle, Root looks to defend but the ball shapes away and clips his back thigh pad on its way to the keeper. There is an appeal but the umpire turns it down.
31.5
.
Good bowling from Abbas. Good length ball on off, Root comes down and looks to defend but the wobble seam makes the ball shape away at the end and leaves Root hanging there with his defensive blade.
31.4
.
Good length ball outside off, Root looks to punch but the ball keeps low and he misses it. The ball goes to Rizwan on the bounce and he misjudges it to get hit on the rib.
31.3
.
Fullish around off, Root comes forward and across to flick it to mid-wicket.
31.2
.
Good length ball outside off, Root looks to defend but misses.
Joe Root is the new man in.
31.1
W
OUT! Umpire's call on the ball hitting the stumps. Not enough for Crawley to survive. Good length ball pitching around off and coming in. Crawley expects it to come in a lot more than it does. He misses his defense and the ball hits his back pad. The Pakistan players appeal and the umpire raises his finger. No harm in taking the review so Zak takes it. Replay rolls in and once it is confirmed there is no bat involved, Ball Tracker rolls in and it shows that the ball was clipping the top of middle and off.
Crawley has been adjudged LBW. He reviews. Looks out though.
Abbas is back on!
In over# 1
0
0
1
4
0
0
Yasir Shah 21/0(5)
30.6
.
Outside off and Dom shoulders arms to it.
30.5
.
Leg spinner outside off, Sibley leaves it alone.
30.4
1
Now sweeps it to the leg side for a single.
30.3
4
FOUR! FIFTY FOR CRAWLEY! A good run in for him out in the middle and he has made it count. He has looked to score rather than be ultra defensive and he has done his reputation no hard. He gets to his fifty in style. Short ball on off and middle, Crawley pulls it to the mid-wicket fence for a boundary.
30.2
.
Floated on off, Crawley blocks it.
30.1
.
Outside off, Crawley leaves it alone.
In over# 1
0
2
0
0
0
0
Shan Masood 14/0(3)
29.6
.
Good length ball coming in from outside off, Sibley leaves it alone.
29.5
2
Full around off, Sibley turns it to mid-wicket for a couple.
29.4
.
Away from the off pole, Sibley won't disturb that.
29.3
.
Length ball outside off, Sibley has nothing to do with it.
29.2
.
Outside off, Dom leaves it alone.
29.1
.
Length ball on off, Sibley taps it to gully.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
0
1
Yasir Shah 16/0(4)
28.6
.
Straighter one on off, Crawley defends it late off his back foot.
28.5
.
Short around off, Crawley cuts it to point.
28.4
1
Flighted on off, Sibley pushes it to the left of Shan Masood at cover and gets a quick single.
28.3
.
Tossed up on off, Dom gets on his front foot and blocks it.
28.2
.
Flighted on off, Sibley blocks it.
28.1
1
Short on off, Crawley strokes it to point and gets to the other end to move to 48.
In over# 1
1
0
4
0
0
4
Shan Masood 12/0(2)
27.6
1
Short delivery outside off, Crawley cuts it through point for a single.
27.5
.
On a good length on off, Crawley looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad.
27.4
4
FOUR! Short and outside off, Crawley looks to cut but gets an outside edge. It goes through gully for a boundary.
27.3
.
Length delivery on off, Crawley punches it to point.
27.2
.
Good length delivery outside off, Crawley offers no shot to this one.
27.1
4
FOUR! Nice shot! Full toss on middle, Crawley drives it through mid on for a boundary.
In over# 1
1
0
0
0
0
0
Yasir Shah 14/0(3)
26.6
1
This time punches it in the gap on the off side and keeps the strike.
26.5
.
Short around off, Crawley punches it to cover.
26.4
.
Floated on off, ZC stays back and defends it.
26.3
.
Missed stuming! Rizwan who has been impressive behind the stump and also with the bat has made a mistake here. Probably his first behind the stump in the series. Tossed up on off, Crawley comes down the track and looks to go straight. The ball turns and bounces away from him. It reaches Rizwan at an awkward height and very similar to Buttler's missed stumping to Masood even he misses.
26.2
.
Shortish on off, Crawley punches it to the off side.
26.1
.
Slightly quicker on off, Crawley defends it.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
0
2
Shan Masood 3/0(1)
25.6
.
Outside off and Sibley lets it go.
25.5
.
Outside off, Sibley looks to defend but misses.
25.4
1
Length ball around off, Crawley punches it to point and gets a single.
25.3
.
Outside off, ZC shoulders arms to it.
25.2
.
Length ball on off, Zak defends it.
25.1
2
Fuller on off, Crawley drives it through cover and gets a couple.
In over# 1
0
0
1
3
4
0
Yasir Shah 13/0(2)
24.6
.
Shorter and quicker, it is guided to point.
24.5
.
Tossed up on off, blocked.
24.4
1
Shorter and around off, this is pushed through covers for one.
24.3
3
EDGY! Catch it is the shout but the fielder had no chance! Shorter and outside off, Sibley plays it late. It goes quickly past the slip fielder and down to third man for three.
24.2
4
FOUR! Very good batting! Sibley comes down the track and gets close to the pitch of the ball. The turn is now out of contention and hence, he hits it against the turn and through mid-wicket for a boundary.
24.1
.
Outside off, left alone.
In over# 1
0
4
0
0
0
0
Shaheen Afridi 25/1(10)
23.6
.
Shortish ball outside off, Crawley looks to hit but misses.
23.5
4
FOUR! Beautiful shot! Full ball on off, Crawley gets on his front foot and creams his drive through extra cover and gets a boundary.
23.4
.
Short ball, Crawley ducks under it.
23.3
.
Good length ball in and around off, Crawley punches it to cover.
23.2
.
Outside off, left alone.
23.1
.
Length ball on off, Crawley punches it to the off side.
In over# 1
0
0
1
4
0
0
Yasir Shah 5/0(1)
22.6
.
Tossed up outside off, Dom leaves it alone.
22.5
.
Shorter on off, Sibley blocks it.
22.4
1
Follows it up with a single towards mid on.
22.3
4
FOUR! Excellent shot! Tossed up on off, Crawley comes down the track and goes over mid off to fetch himself a boundary.
22.2
.
Tossed up on off, Zak defends it.
22.1
.
Floated leg spinner turning away from off, Crawley looks to hit but misses.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Shaheen Afridi 21/1(9)
21.6
.
On the pads, Sibley looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pad.
21.5
.
Way outside off, Sibley leaves it.
21.4
.
Full toss outside off, Sibley pushes it to the fielder at point.
21.3
.
Afridi bowls it on a length, Dom defends it.
21.2
.
Another short ball and another sway from the England opener.
21.1
.
Bouncer that goes away from Sibley. He sways away from it.
In over# 1
1
0
0
0
0
0
Naseem Shah 10/0(5)
20.6
1
Single to end the over. Full on the pads, Sibley flicks it to fine leg and keeps the strike.
20.5
.
Length ball away from the stumps, Sibley lets it go to the keeper.
20.4
.
Shortish ball on off and middle, Sibley defends it off the back foot.
20.3
.
Outside off and Sibley has no business with that.
20.2
.
Length ball on off, Sibley defends it off the back foot.
20.1
.
Outside off, Sibley leaves it alone.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1wd
0
0
1nb
Shaheen Afridi 21/1(8)
19.6
.
Good length and on off, Crawley blocks it.
19.5
.
Another nut outside the off pole, Crawley shoulders arms to this one.
19.4
.
Shorter and on off, Crawley stays back and keeps it out.
19.3
.
Goes back to bowling outside off, it is left alone.
19.3
1wd
A bumper but way too short! Crawley ducks under. Wided.
19.2
.
Another delivery outside the off pole, Crawley shoulders arms to this one.
19.1
.
Outside off again, Crawley leaves it alone.
19.1
1nb
NO BALL! Shaheen oversteps! Length and outside off, left alone. 50 up for England.
In over# 1
4
0
0
0
0
0
Naseem Shah 9/0(4)
18.6
4
EDGY FOUR! The last delivery is on a length and angling away from off. Sibley looks to block but it goes off the outside edge and down to the third man fence.
18.5
.
One more bumper down the leg side, Sibely lets it go.
18.4
.
From around the wicket, it is banged short and on the body, Sibley ducks under it.
18.3
.
The batsman flicks it away with a wristy shot.
18.2
.
Sibley did not need to play at that! It is on a length and outside off, Sibley pushes at it and gets beaten.
18.1
.
Fuller and on off, it is driven towards covers.
In over# 1
0
1
0
4
0
2
Shaheen Afridi 19/1(7)
17.6
.
Good length delivery outside off, Crawley shoulders arms to this one.
17.5
1
Full delivery on off, Sibley drives it through covers for a single.
17.4
.
Outside off, Sibley leaves it alone.
17.3
4
FOUR! On a good length on off, Sibley looks to defend but gets an outside edge. It goes between third slip and gully towards third man for a boundary.
17.2
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Sibley looks to drive but misses it.
Shaheen Afridi is back on.
17.1
2
On a length on middle, Sibley flicks it through square leg. The batsmen get two runs.
In over# 1
0
0
2
1
0
0
Naseem Shah 5/0(3)
16.6
.
The batsman has driven that ball straight back.
16.5
.
OHHH! This is fuller and outside off, it is the sucker ball. Crawley looks to drive but is beaten.
16.4
2
Shorter and on the body, it is pulled down towards fine leg for two.
16.3
1
Angled into the batter, Sibley works it towards mid-wicket for one.
16.2
.
On middle, Sibley stays back and defends it onto the ground.
16.1
.
Outside off, Sibley does not fiddle with it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 18/0(8)
15.6
.
On the fourth stump line, Crawley is aware of his off pole and leaves it.
15.5
.
Outside off, Crawley walks closer to the ball and leaves it.
15.4
.
On the stumps, Crawley blocks.
15.3
.
Good length ball pitching on off and angling in. Crawley looks to defend but misses and gets hit high on the thigh pad.
15.2
.
Length ball on off, Crawley defends it off the back foot.
15.1
.
Full on the stumps, Crawley defends it off the front foot.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Naseem Shah 2/0(2)
14.6
.
One more nut outside off, Sibley shoulders arms to this one.
14.5
1
On middle, Crawley works it wide of mid on for one.
14.4
.
BEATEN! Outside off, Crawley pushes at it tentatively and gets beaten.
14.3
.
Fuller and angled into the middle pole, Crawley works it to mid on.
14.2
.
Shorter and on off, blocked out again.
14.1
.
Lands it on a length and around off, Crawley gets right behind the line and keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 18/0(7)
13.6
.
Good leave in the end! This lands outside off and comes back in. Sibley leaves it. Goes pretty close past the off pole.
13.5
.
Fuller and on middle, it is stroked to mid on.
13.4
.
BEATEN! Lovely nut! It is angled into the batter and then gets to leave him after pitching. It beats the outside edge of Sibley's bat as he tries to defend.
13.3
.
Outside off, not played at.
13.2
.
On middle, Sibley is solid in defense.
13.1
.
On middle, Sibley keeps it out nicely.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1nb
0
0
0
Naseem Shah 1/0(1)
12.6
.
The batsman has played that off the front foot and into the ground.
12.5
.
Angled into the pads, Crawley works it towards mid-wicket.
12.4
.
On off, it is pushed towards cover.
12.4
1nb
Length and on off, Crawley defends it onto the ground. It is a NO BALL! Shah has overstepped and the third umpire has conveyed the message to the umpire.
12.3
.
Down the leg side, Crawley looks to flick but misses.
12.2
.
Edged but short! On a length and around off, Crawley looks to defend but does so with soft hands. It goes off the outside edge but lands well short of first slip.
12.1
.
Starts off with one down the leg side, Crawley lets it be.
Naseem Shah is on!
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
2
Mohammad Abbas 18/0(6)
11.6
.
Fuller on off, Sibley looks to flick but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
11.5
.
On off, Sibley defends it.
11.4
.
Loose delivery but straight to the fielder. It is on the pads, in the arc for Sibley. He flicks but straight to mid-wicket.
11.3
.
Outside off, Dom leaves it alone.
11.2
.
Fuller on off, Sibley pushes it to cover.
11.1
2
On the pads, Sibley turns it through mid-wicket and gets a double.
In over# 1
0
0
1lb
0
3
0
Shaheen Afridi 12/1(6)
10.6
.
Another delivery shorter in length and outside off, Crawley guides it to point.
10.5
.
Shorter and outside off, Crawley pushes it to covers.
10.4
1lb
On the pads, Sibley tries flicking it but misses. It hits the thigh pad and rolls towards fine leg. Leg bye taken.
10.3
.
Good length and on off, Sibley defends it onto the ground.
10.2
3
Just over! Fuller and on off, it comes back in. Crawley takes his front leg out of the way and flicks it. He does so uppishly but over mid-wicket for three.
10.1
.
One more delivery outside off, Crawley does not fiddle with it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 16/0(5)
9.6
.
One more ball outside off, Sibley points his bat skywards and lets it go. Not a lot of movement for Abbas today.
9.5
.
One more ball outside the off pole. Sibley shoulders arms to this one.
9.4
.
Outside off, not played at.
9.3
1
The batsman gets a leading edge on that one. The batsmen have run through for a single.
9.2
.
On middle, Crawley defends it onto the ground.
9.1
.
Outside off, not played at.
In over# 1
0
2lb
0
3
0
1
Shaheen Afridi 9/1(5)
8.6
.
Good length and on off, Sibley prods forward and keeps it out.
8.5
2lb
Leg byes! On the pads. Sibley looks to flick but it misses the bat, hits the pad and rolls down towards fine leg for two.
8.4
.
Angling away from the off pole, it is left alone.
8.3
3
Lovely stroke! It does not go all the way but it deserved a boundary! Fuller and on off, it is creamed past mid off for three.
8.2
.
Outside off, it is not played at.
8.1
1
Full around off and swinging in. Sibley looks to defend it on the off side but gets an inside edge which sees the ball go behind square on the leg side for a single.
In over# 1
4
0
0
0
4
0
Mohammad Abbas 15/0(4)
7.6
4
FOUR! Excellent shot to finish the over. Second loose ball of the over. Abbas is guilty of going short and wide outside off, Crawley is quick to get on his back foot and punch it off the meat through covers for a boundary.
7.5
.
Fuller on off and shaping away a tad. Crawley looks to defend but does so off the outer half of his bat.
7.4
.
Outside off, Zak leaves it alone.
7.3
.
Abbas goes back to his consistent length and line in and around off, Crawley defends it.
7.2
4
FOUR! Abbas moves away from his bread and butter and gets punished. He goes short around off, at his pace Crawley will have no problem and he does not. He whacks his pull through mid-wicket and gets a boundary.
7.1
.
Good length ball around off and shaping away. Crawley looks to defend but misses.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Shaheen Afridi 5/1(4)
6.6
.
A maiden to start with by Afridi. On off, it is kept out.
6.5
.
Hint of movement! It starts from outside off and comes back in late. Sibley looks to defend but it goes off the inside edge towards the leg side.
6.4
.
Outside off, left alone.
6.3
.
A bumper now! Sibely ducks under it.
6.2
.
Another one on the stumps. Sibely gets right behind the line and keeps it out.
6.1
.
Good length and on middle, defended.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
3
2nb
Mohammad Abbas 7/0(3)
5.6
.
On the fourth stump line, Crawley watches it carry to the keeper and see off the first over of the day.
5.5
.
Outside off and shaping away. Crawley looks to defend but misses.
5.4
.
On off, Crawley blocks it this time.
5.3
.
Good length ball on middle and leg and angling in. Crawley looks to defend but misses and gets hit on the pads.
5.2
.
Outside off, it keeps going away. Crawley looks to defend it inside the line.
5.1
3
Sibley gets his first run of the day. Good length ball on off, Sibley taps it behind square on the off side and gets three as the fielder stops the ball before the ropes.
5.1
2nb
NO BALL! First ball of the day and Abbas has overstepped. He bowls it on the pads, Crawley flicks it behind square on the leg side and gets a single to get the first run off the bat of the day.
Finally after hours of wait we are finally on the way to have some action on Day 5. Zak Crawley and Dom Sibley walk out to the middle to resume their innings. The Pakistan players are out on the field and it will be Mohammad Abbas who will bowl the first over of the day.
UPDATE 1500 local (1400 GMT) - Tea has been taken on Day 5 but the good news is that in about 20 minutes we will have some cricket as we are set to see first ball being bowled today provided if it does not rain again.
UPDATE 1435 local (1335 GMT) - Okay! Now then, I still can�t believe I�m going to write this but we have a start time - 1520 local. Which is about a little more than 45 minutes from now.
UPDATE 1356 local (1256 GMT) - Well, the story continues, there was supposed to be an inspection after Lunch but now that has been pushed forward and we have another one at 1420 local.
Update 1300 local (1200 GMT) - Lunch it is then! The umpires are done with their inspection but aren't happy with the conditions out there. They have scheduled for another inspection in 40 minutes. Stay tuned.
Hopefully we can come back then and report the start time. It will be a test of the drainage facility though as it has been raining constantly.
Update 1217 local (1117 GMT) - Well we have a positive news to report. The rain for the moment has stopped and there will be an inspection at 1255 local (1155 GMT).
Update 1115 local (1015 GMT) - Another inspection was scheduled at 1200 local but guess what? It has started to rain once again. It isn't surprising anymore to be honest, a starting time would have been a surprise to many. All we can do now is continue to do what we have been doing for most parts of this Test - that is wait and hope it clears soon.
Update 1100 local (1000 GMT) - It's inspection time in Southampton! The umpires make their way out to the middle. Let's hope we get some good news once this is done. Fingers still crossed.
We can confirm an hour's delay at least. The umpires are going to inspect the ground at 11 am local, so hard to see the game resuming before 1030 GMT. Still, fingers crossed.
Ironically, on Sunday, just after we shut shop, the ground was bathed in bright sunshine. Then, at around 4 this morning, there were thunderstorms which has left the ground soaked again. No word on when we can begin but we are hopeful of not too big a delay. There will be an inspection at 1100 local (1000 GMT).
Rain and Bad Light have dominated the preceding 4 days with just over 96 overs bowled so far. We had a lot of overnight rain and some in the morning as well but let's hope that we have some cricketing action on the final day. The weather forecast is the best we have had so far in Southampton over the course of the Test but the showers from early on have had an affect on the outfield. Fingers crossed, lets hope we start on time and get some cricket to cherish!
Hello and welcome to Day 5 of the second Test between England and Pakistan. We are into the final day of the Test and usually we enter the fifth day of a Test with at least one side in a position to win but this is just a day of formality as we are sure of this match ending in a draw.
� Day 5, Morning Session ...
The day though started off on a promising note with it beginning on time. Pakistan were probably the ones who enjoyed the amount of cricket that was played as they not only added a few runs at the start but also managed to take a wicket. Rain though then played spoilsport and ensured that there is no more action on Day 4. A draw is for certain in this game but let's still hope we get a full day's play on Day 5 so that we can enjoy some cricket. Do join us at 1100 local (1000 GMT). Till then, take care and goodbye!
So, the inevitable has happened! IT IS STUMPS ON DAY 4! The rain did not have any mercy and it has for sure washed away all hopes of us getting a result in this game.
UPDATE 1530 local (1430 GMT) - It continues to rain and any chance of the game is pretty difficult now! We might get the final words soon as even if it stops raining right now, the groundstaff will need a lot of time to dry the pitch and ground! Stay tuned!
UPDATE 1500 local (1400 GMT) - Well, how long can one be hopeful? To be very honest, I think the writing is on the wall now as it is hammering down in Southampton!
UPDATE 1420 local (1320 GMT) - So, no respite from the rain. It is pouring down right now and things look bleak for any play! Well, stay with us though and let's see if there's any hope!
UPDATE 1346 local (1246 GMT) - Things were so good for the bowlers and the Pakistani bowlers would've loved to use the cherry to trouble the few batters! Now, result looks to be a distant dream in this game, they would've loved to crank a few batters up and have a good practice going into the final game. Well, they'd be praying for things to get better. So do we! Let's see if the prayers are heard!
UPDATE 1345 local (1245 GMT) - Well, Lunch time is over but rain is here to stay! All we can do is, wait and hope things get better for some action!
... Day 4, Session 2 ...
LUNCH IT IS! Right! 32 balls from England to get rid of the final wicket and then another 5 from the Pakistani bowlers to knock off Burns, one of the England openers. Shaheen Afridi removed him for a duck in the first over itself. And then, the bad light and the rain combination got together again to cut short the session. Let's hope when we return for the 2nd session, things are better and we get some action!
UPDATE 1245 local (1145 GMT) - Nothing much to say really! The rain has returned, quite heavy as well. Gloomy clouds! Same, old story. Hang in there.
UPDATE 1215 local (1115 GMT) - So, we went off due to poor light and now it has started to drizzle as well. So, we are back to the waiting game again!
Well, well! The light has deteriorated and the players are going off. Frustrating times! Just 5 overs from the Pakistani bowlers but they looked threatening! England, to be honest, wouldn't mind this. Let's hope things get better and we return again. Stay tuned.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
2
0
Shaheen Afridi 5/1(3)
4.6
.
Very full and on middle, Sibley is solid in defense.
4.5
.
Fuller and outside off again, Sibley once again leaves it alone.
4.4
.
Goes slightly fuller but this one is outside off, another leave from Sibley.
4.3
.
Good leave! He has allowed it to go to the keeper on the length. It is just behind good length around off, Sibley reads it well and lets it go to the keeper.
4.2
2
Sibley is up and running as well. Fuller one on middle, he flicks it through mid-wicket and gets two.
4.1
.
Outside off, left alone!
In over# 1
0
0
0
2
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 2/0(2)
3.6
.
Good length ball around off, Crawley is out of his crease again but this one bounces a bit extra and beats the bat and hits him high on the thigh pad.
3.5
.
Good length ball on off, Crawley takes a step further and keeps it out.
3.4
.
In the channel outside off, Crawley lets it be.
3.3
2
On the pads, this time Crawley flicks it to deep square leg and gets easy two.
3.2
.
Gets behind this length ball to block it off his front foot.
3.1
.
Half an appeal! A length ball around off, Crawley looks to defend but misses. A muted appeal from behind the stumps but nothing from the bowler.
In over# 1
3
0
0
0
0
0
Shaheen Afridi 3/1(2)
2.6
3
Runs! Crawley and England open their account! A length ball around middle, Crawley looks to play it towards mid on but the ball takes the inner half of the bat and goes in the deep at square leg. Three taken before the fielder from fine leg can come around.
2.5
.
Outside off, left alone.
2.4
.
Fuller and around middle, pushed towards mid on.
2.3
.
Just short! Good length ball around off, Crawley looks to defend but gets a thick outside edge. Soft hands from him means that it drops well short of the fourth slip fielder.
The groundstaff are ready on the sideline as it has got darker and the clouds have taken over. Not a good sign as they predict that it will rain soon but let's hope the clouds are playing just a teasing game and make way for the sun to pop out.
2.2
.
Full and just outside off, Crawley keeps it out.
2.1
.
Fuller and around off, Crawley keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mohammad Abbas 0/0(1)
1.6
.
On the pads, Sibley looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pad.
1.5
.
Another warning from the cherry to the outside edge. Just outside off, Sibley looks to defend but the ball goes past the outside edge again!
1.4
.
Threatening line! Length ball around off, Sibley looks to defend but the ball moves away and sends a warning to the outside edge.
1.3
.
Length ball on the pads, Sibley looks to defend but does so off the outer half of his bat.
1.2
.
This time Abbas bowls it on off and Sibley manages to defend it towards cover properly.
1.1
.
Abbas starts right on the money. He bowls a length ball on middle and moves it away. Sibley looks to defend but misses and gets hit on the body.
Mohammad Abbas will bowl from the other end!
In over# 1
0
0
0W
0
0
0
Shaheen Afridi 0/1(1)
0.6
.
Leave on the last ball! Excellent first over from Afridi.
0.5
.
NOT OUT! There is a spike as the ball goes past the bat. Pakistan lose a review in the first over. Good length ball angled in, Crawley looks to defend but misses to get hit on the pads. A loud, loud appeal from Afridi and Pakistan follows. Not out says the umpire and after taking his time, Azhar signals the 'T'. The replays roll in and show that there is an inside edge. So, Crawley survives.
Review time! Crawley has been given not out but Azhar asks for third umpire's assistance. Looked to be going down! Let's see what the replays suggest! There is a spike! So, Pakistan lose the review.
Zak Crawley is the new batsman in. He is going to be tested here!
0.4
W
OUT! CAUGHT! This time it goes straight to Asad! Pakistan have struck early! 4-ball duck it is for Rory Burns. Just a hint of movement has done him in. A length ball around off, just leaves away! Burns looks to defend but a thick outside edge is induced! It goes slightly on the right side of Shafiq who moves well and pouches it comfortably. Pakistan off to a brilliant start.
0.3
.
Goes full and around middle this time, Burns is solid behind the line of the ball to block.
0.2
.
In the channel outside off, goes away! Burns this time shoulders arms.
0.1
.
Edged but just short! Brilliant from Shaheen on the first ball. Slightly shortish and around off, shapes away! Burns looks to defend but gets a thick outside edge. It falls short of Asad Shafiq at second slip. That went to perfect height and a couple of yards ahead, Asad would've had gobbled it!
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.
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.
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 phase to give Pakistan a hint of advantage. England couldn't make the batters play in the curtailed first session.
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 recover once again to post a decent first innings score.
91.2
W
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!
91.1
.
On a good length on middle, Rizwan looks to defend but gets an inside edge onto the pads.
In over# 1
0
1
0
4
0
0
James Anderson 60/3(27)
90.6
.
Naseem keeps it out! In fact he has flicked it to deep square leg nicely but Rizwan will not take any run.
90.5
1
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.
90.4
.
Anderson goes full and Rizwan strokes it straight to mid on.
90.3
4
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.
90.2
.
Connects with thin air again! A length ball outside off, Rizwan throws kitchen sink but no connection with the ball.
90.1
.
Good length ball outside off, Rizwan looks to punch it on the up but misses as the ball moves away.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 56/3(27)
89.6
.
Outside off, too wide to trouble Naseem who is just guarding his stumps. He is not complaining and he survives the over.
89.5
.
On the pads, Naseem looks to defend but misses and gets hit on the pads.
89.4
.
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.
89.3
.
Outside off and going away, Naseem keeps his bat on his off pole.
89.2
.
This time Broad targets the stump, Naseem manages to block it.
89.1
.
Full outside off, Shah looks to defend but misses.
In over# 1
0
4
0
0
2
0
James Anderson 55/3(26)
88.6
.
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.
88.5
4
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.
88.4
.
Good ball. Length ball pitching around off and going away. Rizwan looks to defend thinking it will come in but it does not.
88.3
.
On off, Rizwan keeps it out.
88.2
2
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.
88.1
.
On the pads, Rizwan looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the body.
In over# 1
0
1lb
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 56/3(26)
87.6
.
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.
87.5
1lb
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.
87.4
.
Good length ball on off, MR defends it to point.
87.3
.
Length ball shaping away well outside off, Rizwan swings but misses.
87.2
.
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.
So, after showing aggression on the first ball, Rizwan didn't show much aggression. How will he go about things in Broad's over? Let's see!
87.1
.
Length ball outside off, Rizwan lets it go.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 49/3(25)
86.6
.
Length ball outside off, Naseem keeps his bat inside the line of the delivery.
86.5
1
Better throw from Crawley and Naseem Shah would have been a goner. Length ball on off, Rizwan taps it towards point and takes a risky run. Crawley gets to the ball but misses his shy at the keeper's end.
86.4
.
Outside off, Rizwan comes inside his stumps and looks to defend but gets beaten.
86.3
.
Length ball around off and shaping away, Rizwan looks to defend but misses.
86.2
.
Good length ball on off and middle, Rizwan stays behind and blocks it.
86.1
.
Rizwan making his intentions clear! He comes down the track the very first ball and swings hard at this short pitched delivery but misses.
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...
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 crossed!
... Day 4, Session 1 ...
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!
UPDATE 1710 local (1610 GMT) - Well, just before the inspection, rain has arrived. So, this should be the final nail in the coffin.
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 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 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.
... Day 3, Session 3 ...
Well, the outcome of the earlier inspection is another inspection at 1615 local! Also, the umpires have taken TEA! Stay tuned for further updates.
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.
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 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 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 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.
... Day 3, Session 2 ...
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
... Day 3, Session 1 ...
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 as well. Anyway, all we can do is hope for a better day. Join us at 1100 local (1000 GMT) on 15th August 2020 for all the action on Day 3. Until then, take care and stay fit.
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 wicket of Abbas. And we went off and just waited and waited, only to get disappointed because the light never got better.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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!
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.
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.
In over# 1
1
4
0
2
1
0W
Stuart Broad 56/3(25)
85.6
1
Now he gets a single and keeps the strike. Length ball around off, Rizwan taps it behind point and takes the vital run.
85.5
4
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.
85.4
.
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.
85.3
2
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.
85.2
1
Good length ball around off, Naseem works it towards the leg side and gets to the other end.
Naseem Shah is the new man in.
85.1
W
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 but a frustrating one for England comes to an end.
Abbas has been given out LBW! He goes for the review. Looked out. Let's see if he survives.
Stuart Broad with the ball from the other end. He has got 6 balls at Abbas.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
2
Chris Woakes 55/1(19)
84.6
.
Short and outside off, Rizwan lets it be.
84.5
.
Beauty to end the over! A length ball around off, Rizwan pokes at it to get beaten.
84.4
.
A good length ball outside off, left alone.
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...
... Day 2, Session 3 ...
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!
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.
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.
84.3
.
Length delivery on off, Rizwan plays it to covers.
84.2
.
On a good length on off, Rizwan defends it off the back foot.
84.1
2
Short delivery outside off, Rizwan cuts it through point. The batsmen pick up a couple.
In over# 1
2
0
1
0
2
0
Stuart Broad 48/2(24)
83.6
2
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.
83.5
.
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.
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.
83.4
1
Short and on middle, pulled to deep square leg for a single.
83.3
.
Shortish and around off, blocked.
83.2
2
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 will aim to score a few more.
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.
Run out appeal referred upstairs!
83.1
.
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.
In over# 1
1
2lb
0
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 53/1(18)
82.6
1
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards fine leg for a single.
82.5
2lb
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.
82.4
.
Short delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to cut but gets a bottom edge on this one. It goes towards the slip region.
82.3
.
On a length on off, Rizwan taps it to point.
82.2
.
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it towards mid off.
82.1
.
Good length delivery on off, Rizwan defends it off the back foot.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
1
Stuart Broad 43/2(23)
81.6
.
Good length delivery outside off, Abbas shoulders arms to this one.
81.5
.
On a good length on off, Abbas defends it out.
81.4
.
Length delivery down the leg side, Abbas offers no shot to this one.
81.3
.
Short delivery on middle, Abbas looks to duck but gets hit on the thigh pad.
81.2
.
On a good length on off, Abbas keeps it out.
81.1
1
Short delivery on off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets it off the gloves. It goes towards gully. The batsmen cross ends.
In over# 1
1
1wd
0
0
0
4b
0
Chris Woakes 52/1(17)
80.6
1
On a length on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards square leg for a run.
80.6
1wd
WIDE! Woakes bowls it wide and outside off, Rizwan looks to play at it but misses it.
80.5
.
BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Rizwan looks to swing at it but misses it.
80.4
.
Good length delivery on off, Rizwan offers a solid defense on this one.
80.3
.
BEATEN! Short and outside off, Rizwan looks to chase it but misses it.
80.2
4b
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.
80.1
.
On a length on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards the leg side.
The second new ball is available and England have decided to take it. Woakes will bowl the first over with the new cherry.
In over# 1
0
0
1b
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 42/2(22)
79.6
.
Length delivery down the leg side, Abbas looks to flick but misses it.
79.5
.
Outside off, Abbas lets it go.
79.4
1b
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.
79.3
.
Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan leaves it alone.
79.2
.
Full delivery on off, Rizwan drives it towards long off but Rizwan denies it.
79.1
.
On a good length on off, Rizwan stands tall and defends it off the back foot.
Stuart Broad is back on.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
4
0
Chris Woakes 50/1(16)
78.6
.
Solidly blocked! Slightly shortish and around off, Abbas is behind the line of the ball to keep it out.
78.5
.
Fuller and around off, blocks it well.
78.4
1
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.
78.3
.
On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out.
78.2
4
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.
78.1
.
Play and a miss! Short delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to cut but misses it.
In over# 1
0
1
4
0
4
0
Sam Curran 44/1(18)
77.6
.
Well, he can! A wasted ball down the leg side. Abbas tries to tickle it fine but misses.
77.5
1
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?
77.4
4
FOUR! Delicate! Shortish and just outside off, Rizwan stays back and guides it over the slip cordon to bag another boundary.
77.3
.
Fuller and around off, Rizwan keeps it out.
77.2
4
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.
77.1
.
Good length ball on middle, Rizwan flicks it to short mid-wicket.
In over# 1
0
1
2
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 45/1(15)
76.6
.
Landed on middle on a good length, Abbas keeps it out.
76.5
1
Short and outside off, Rizwan gently pulls it wide of the mid on fielder for a single.
76.4
2
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.
76.3
.
Slower yorker! Rizwan does well to keep it out towards mid on. Thought for the single but decided against it.
76.2
.
Play and a miss! Good length ball around off, comes back in nicely. Rizwan looks to defend but is beaten.
76.1
.
Shortish and around middle, Rizwan tucks it towards the leg side.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sam Curran 35/1(17)
75.6
.
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.
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.
75.5
.
Length ball on off, Abbas plays it to point and looks for a run but Rizwan turns it down.
75.4
.
Good leave! Fullish ball outside off, Abbas shoulders arms to it. The cherry comes back in but once it goes past the stump.
75.3
.
Length ball on off and middle, Abbas tucks it to the leg side.
75.2
.
On off, Abbas manages to keep it out.
75.1
.
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.
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.
In over# 1
4
0W
0
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 42/1(14)
74.6
4
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.
Mohammad Abbas joins Rizwan out in the middle. Can he hang in there?
74.5
W
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 enders running and dismissal.
74.4
.
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it to mid on.
74.3
.
Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan offers no shot to this one.
74.2
.
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.
74.1
.
On a length on off, Rizwan punches it towards the off side.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Sam Curran 35/1(16)
73.6
.
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 with the soft signal as NOT OUT! Replay rolls in and it shows that the ball carried to Root but he did not take it cleanly as the ball hit the turf after hitting the England skipper's palm.
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.
73.5
1
On a length on off, Rizwan punches it through point for a run.
73.4
.
Short delivery down the leg side, Rizwan looks to pull but misses it.
73.3
.
BEATEN! Full delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to drive but misses it.
73.2
.
Length delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it to square leg.
73.1
.
On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
0
Chris Woakes 38/1(13)
72.6
.
Short and outside off, Afridi looks to punch but misses it.
72.5
.
Good length delivery outside off, Afridi lets it go.
72.4
.
BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Afridi looks to defend but misses it.
72.3
1
Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it towards fine leg for a run.
72.2
.
On a length on off, Rizwan plays it to covers.
72.1
.
Short delivery on off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad.
Chris Woakes is back on.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
0
Sam Curran 34/1(15)
71.6
.
Outside off, Shaheen leaves it alone.
71.5
.
On a good length on off, Afridi blocks it off the back foot.
71.4
.
Full delivery on off, Afridi looks to push but misses it.
71.3
.
Good length delivery outside off, Afridi offers no shot to this one.
71.2
1
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it through square leg for a run.
71.1
.
On a length and down the leg side, Rizwan looks to flick but misses it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
1
James Anderson 48/3(24)
70.6
.
Length delivery on middle, Afridi flicks it to mid-wicket.
70.5
.
Short delivery outside off, Afridi looks to defend but misses it.
70.4
.
BEATEN AGAIN! On a good length and outside off, Afridi looks to push but misses it.
70.3
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Afridi looks to drive but misses it.
70.2
.
On a good length and outside off, Afridi shoulders arms to this one.
70.1
1
Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it through square leg for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
0
Stuart Broad 42/2(21)
69.6
.
Good length delivery on off, Afridi blocks it off the front foot.
69.5
.
Full delivery on off, Afridi drives it to point.
69.4
.
On a good length and outside off, Afridi leaves it alone.
69.3
1
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan flicks it towards fine leg for a run.
69.2
.
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.
69.1
.
On a good length on off, Rizwan keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0W
0
1
James Anderson 47/3(23)
68.6
.
Shortish and around off, Shaheen blocks it nicely. A run and a wicket from the over.
68.5
.
Fuller and around off, Shaheen keeps it out.
68.4
.
Outside off, left alone.
Shaheen Afridi is the next batsman in.
68.3
W
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.
68.2
.
On a good length on off, Shah blocks it off the back foot.
68.1
1
Short delivery on middle, Rizwan pulls it towards mid-wicket for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
4
0
0
Stuart Broad 41/2(20)
67.6
.
Play and a miss again! This will frustrate England more though. Another fullish one outside off, Yasir goes after it only to get beaten.
67.5
.
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.
67.4
.
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.
67.3
4
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.
67.2
.
Loose from Yasir. Full and outside off, Yasir looks to drill it through the covers but misses.
67.1
.
Shortish and around off, Yasir keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
1
0
James Anderson 46/2(22)
66.6
.
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.
66.5
1
Shortish and around middle, Yasir tucks it towards the leg side for a quick single to get off the mark.
66.4
.
Beaten! This is full and just outside off, Shah pokes at it but is beaten.
66.3
.
Around off, blocked off the back foot.
66.2
1
On the pads, flicked to fine leg for a single. Rizwan wanted second once again but it was not on offer.
66.1
.
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.
In over# 1
0
1
0
2
1lb
0
Stuart Broad 37/2(19)
65.6
.
Shortish and on the body, Yasir fends it towards short fine leg.
65.5
1
On the pads, Rizwan flicks it to deep square leg powerfully. Wants two but the fielder there is quick so he settles for a single.
65.4
.
Angled in from around off, Rizwan looks to defend but misses to get hit high on the pads.
65.3
2
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.
65.2
1lb
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.
65.1
.
Fuller and around off and middle, Yasir looks to flick but gets a leading edge back to the bowler.
In over# 1
0
0
2
0
0
0
James Anderson 44/2(21)
64.6
.
Shortish and around off, forced towards the point region.
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.
64.5
.
Down the leg side, Rizwan fails to connect his flick.
64.4
2
Full and on the pads, Rizwan flicks it to deep mid-wicket and gets two before the deep square leg fielder can get around.
64.3
.
Fuller and around off, blocked.
64.2
.
Shortish and around off, pushed towards the third slip fielder.
64.1
.
Ripper! Short and just around off, Rizwan looks to defend off his back foot but the ball zips past the outside edge.
In over# 1
0
0
0W
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 34/2(18)
63.6
.
Dot to end the successful over from Broad. Bowls it fuller and around off, Yasir is on the front foot to defend.
63.5
.
Gets him driving on the first ball. Full and outside off, Yasir looks to drive it through the covers but misses.
Yasir Shah is the new man in. Batted well in the last game. Pakistan need similar contribution from him.
63.4
W
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 stay for Pakistan.
63.3
.
Around off, played towards mid on by Babar.
63.2
.
Down the leg side, Babar looks to nudge it to fine leg but misses.
63.1
.
In the channel outside off, Babar shoulders arms.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
1nb
James Anderson 42/2(20)
62.6
.
Shortish and outside off, Rizwan lets it go to Buttler.
62.5
1
On the pads, Babar clips it towards deep square leg for a run.
62.4
.
Fuller and outside off, a leave from Babar.
62.3
.
Fuller and around off, blocked.
62.2
.
Good length ball around off, solidly defended.
62.1
.
Fuller and just outside off, Babar finds mid off.
62.1
1nb
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.
James Anderson will bowl from the other end. 19-5-40-2 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
1
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 34/1(17)
61.6
1
Single on the last ball. Broad goes for the fuller inswinger. Babar flicks it towards deep square leg for a single.
61.5
.
Three leaves in a row as this one is little wide outside off.
61.4
.
Easy leave this time as this is full and outside off. This goes to Buttler at a good height. He does well to collect.
61.3
.
Gathers his emotions and gets back to leaving the ones which he should. Tight from Broad.
61.2
.
Beauty! Babar is lured this time as this is full and around off. He goes for the drive but misses. Buttler fails to collect.
61.1
.
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.
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.
... Day 2, Session 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 and we get to witness the entire second session!
In over# 1
1
2
0
2
0
1
Sam Curran 33/1(14)
60.6
1
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!
60.5
2
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.
60.4
.
Fuller on off, BA plays it to cover.
60.3
2
Once again Sam makes the ball angle in from middle, Babar flicks it through mid-wicket and gets a couple.
60.2
.
Length ball on off, Azam defends it.
60.1
1
On the pads, Rizwan flicks it to the leg side for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
0
Stuart Broad 33/1(16)
59.6
.
Away from the off stump, asking Babar to drive but he refuses.
59.5
.
Outside off, BA leaves it alone.
59.4
.
Short ball, Babar ducks under it.
59.3
.
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.
59.2
1
On the pads, Mohammad Rizwan flicks it behind square on the leg side for a single.
59.1
.
Outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
0
Sam Curran 27/1(13)
58.6
.
On off, Babar defends it to the off side.
58.5
.
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 protects the stumps. The ball rolls to the side of the stumps.
58.4
.
Short ball. Babar ducks under it.
58.3
.
Outside off, Azam raises his blade and lets it carry to the keeper.
58.2
1
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.
58.1
.
Length ball on off and middle, Rizwan defends it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 32/1(15)
57.6
.
Good length delivery outside off, Babar does not bother to play at that.
57.5
.
Length delivery on off, Azam taps it to point.
57.4
.
On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one.
57.3
.
Outside off, Babar shoulders arms to this one.
57.2
.
Good length delivery outside off, Azam leaves it alone.
57.1
.
On a good length on off, Azam defends it off the back foot.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
0
Sam Curran 26/1(12)
56.6
.
Fuller and around off, punched towards the cover fielder.
56.5
.
Outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms.
56.4
.
Good length ball on middle, pushed towards mid on.
56.3
.
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.
56.2
1
On the pads of Babar. He works it towards deep square leg for an easy run.
56.1
.
Fullish and around off, Babar keeps it out.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 32/1(14)
55.6
.
A leave to end the over as Broad bowls the last ball outside off.
55.5
.
Shortish and just outside off, forced towards point off the back foot.
55.4
1
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.
55.3
.
Another one down the leg side. Babar once again misses his flick.
55.2
.
Short and wide outside off this time. Babar lets it be.
55.1
.
Broad starts with a length ball down the leg side. Babar misses his flick.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
2
0
Sam Curran 25/1(11)
54.6
.
Dot to end from Curran! Couple of runs from the over. The last ball is on off, Rizwan pushes it towards mid off.
54.5
.
Fuller and around off, Rizwan flicks it well but can't beat square leg.
54.4
.
Shorter and around middle, played towards mid on once again.
54.3
.
Around off on a length, Rizwan pushes it towards mid on.
54.2
2
On the pads of Rizwan, he flicks it to deep square leg and gets a couple.
54.1
.
Fuller and around off, blocked.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1lb
0
Chris Woakes 37/1(12)
53.6
.
Short delivery on middle, Azam pulls it to mid-wicket.
53.5
.
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.
53.4
.
On a length on off, Babar plays it to covers.
53.3
.
Good length delivery on off, Azam keeps it out.
53.2
1lb
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.
53.1
.
On a good length and outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to this one.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 40/2(19)
52.6
.
Outside off, Babar lets it go.
52.5
.
Full delivery on middle, Azam flicks it to mid-wicket.
52.4
.
On a good length and outside off, Azam does not bother to play at that.
52.3
.
Outside off, Babar leaves it alone.
52.2
.
Good length delivery outside off, Azam shoulders arms to this one.
52.1
.
On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 37/1(11)
51.6
.
Full delivery on off, Rizwan drives it back towards the bowler.
51.5
.
On a good length and outside off, Rizwan leaves it alone.
51.4
.
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.
51.3
.
In the channel outside off, Rizwan is not flirting with these.
51.2
.
Shortish and around off, blocked towards the cover fielder.
51.1
.
Full and around off, Rizwan drives it well but finds the bowler.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
4
James Anderson 40/2(18)
50.6
.
Another solid defense on this last ball of the over.
50.5
.
Gets his focus back and blocks this fuller one back to Anderson.
50.4
.
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.
50.3
.
A leave now as this is outside off on a length.
50.2
.
Corrects the line and bowls it around off, Azam is on the front foot to defend.
50.1
4
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.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
0
3
Chris Woakes 37/1(10)
49.6
.
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.
49.5
.
Outside off, on slightly shortish length too. So, an easy leave for Rizwan.
49.4
1
Landed on middle, Babar tucks it towards mid-wicket and calls for a quick single.
49.3
.
In the channel outside off, left alone. Dies as it goes to Buttler behind who does well to pouch the ball lunging forward.
49.2
.
Full and on off, blocked.
49.1
3
Shortish and outside off, Rizwan guides it to third man. It doesn't reach to the fence as Bess chases it down with a slide. Three taken.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 36/2(17)
48.6
.
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.
48.5
.
Short and wide outside off, Azam looks to cut but misses as the ball moves away sharply.
48.4
.
Anderson goes fuller and around middle, Azam strokes it towards mid on. A fumble from the fielder but costs nothing.
48.3
.
Shortish and around off, this time Babar tucks it towards mid-wicket. A loud no for the run to his partner follows.
48.2
.
Shortish and around off, Babar is on the back foot to defend.
48.1
.
In the channel outside off, Babar lets it go to Buttler.
In over# 1
3
0
0
0
4
0
Chris Woakes 33/1(9)
47.6
3
On the pads again and Babar clips it through mid-wicket. Easy three. 7 from the over.
47.5
.
Outside off on a good length, left alone. After passing Babar, the ball moved away sharply.
47.4
.
Shortish and around off, blocked.
47.3
.
Around off, Babar is solid in defense.
47.2
4
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.
47.1
.
Good length ball outside off, Babar leaves it alone.
In over# 1
0
0
1
0
0
0
James Anderson 36/2(16)
46.6
.
Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan shoulders arms to this one.
46.5
.
Outside off, left alone.
46.4
1
First run of Day 2! Another fuller one around off, Azam tucks it towards the leg side and calls for a quick single.
46.3
.
Fuller and on off, it is defended solidly.
46.2
.
Fullish and around middle, Azam plays it towards the man at mid on.
46.1
.
Good length ball on the pads, Azam looks to work it on the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads.
It will be interesting to see though if Woakes will continue or we will have Stuart Broad, Anderson's regular partner bowl from the other end.
James Anderson will bowl from the other end! 15-3-35-2 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
Chris Woakes 26/1(8)
45.6
.
A bouncer just outside off, Rizwan lets it be.
45.5
.
Woakes is on the money straightaway! A good length ball around off, Rizwan pushes it towards point off his back foot.
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...
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.
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 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 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 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!
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 quickly as they could. However, for any action to resume, the weather needs to be clear and the current scenario is not too promising as the covers are firmly on the wicket as it is RAINING right now. It can be one of those days where we'll have to sit tight and WAIT. Stay with us.
... Day 2, Session 1 ...
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!
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. Abid got out after getting to his half ton to Curran while Asad and Fawad fell to Broad and Woakes respectively. The start-stop didn't help the batters.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
45.4
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Rizwan looks to defend but misses it. Rain around the corner it seems.
45.3
1
Full delivery on middle, Azam flicks it through square leg for a run.
45.2
.
Good length delivery outside off, Azam shoulders arms to this one.
45.1
1
Full delivery on middle, Rizwan drives it towards mid on for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
3
0
1
Stuart Broad 31/1(13)
44.6
.
Short again, this time it doesn't rise too big and Babar does well to defend it out.
44.5
.
Beauty! Shortish and outside off, Babar is on the back foot to poke at it but is beaten due to the extra bounce.
44.4
.
Outside off, left alone.
44.3
3
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.
44.2
.
Fuller and around off, Rizwan looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads.
44.1
1
Good length ball around off, Babar looks to defend but the ball takes the inside edge and goes towards fine leg for a single.
In over# 1
0
0W
3
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 24/1(7)
43.6
.
Fuller on off, Rizwan blocks it to get through the over.
Mohammad Rizwan joins Babar Azam.
43.5
W
OUT! LBW! Very good review from Root and Fawad Alam's comeback is a disastrous one. 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 the umpire turns it down. Root thinks about it and then decides to signal the 'T'. Replay rolls in and Ultra Edge first confirms no involvement of bat. Time for the Ball Tracker and it shows the pitching is in line of leg stump, the impact is in line and the wicket is hitting the top of middle. No heroic return for Alam and Woakes gets his first of the game. Half the side back in the hut for Pakistan and they are in a spot of bother here.
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.
43.4
3
Good running. On the pads, Babar flicks it through mid-wicket and gets three as the fielder from fine leg cleans it up.
43.3
.
Length ball around off, Babar defends it to the off side.
43.2
.
Outside off, Babar shoulders arms to it.
43.1
.
Length ball outside off, Azam leaves it alone.
Chris Woakes is back for another spell. 6-1-21-0, his figures so fa.
That's an interesting stance from Fawad Alam. It's almost side on but while playing the ball, he gets in the perfect position.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0W
0
4
Stuart Broad 27/1(12)
42.6
.
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.
42.5
.
Outside off, Fawad leaves it alone.
42.4
.
Length ball around off, Alam defends it with a straight bat.
The man who is making his comeback into the Test side after more than a decade, Fawad Alam comes out to bat.
42.3
W
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.
42.2
.
Fuller on off, Shafiq drives it to point.
42.1
4
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.
In over# 1
0
3lb
1
0
2
1
Sam Curran 23/1(10)
41.6
.
Outside off, Babar leaves it alone.
41.5
3lb
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.
41.4
1
Little bit of inswing to Babar but he keeps his balance and plays it with the swing towards deep square leg for one.
41.3
.
Bouncer but down the leg side, Azam ducks under it.
41.2
2
On the pads, Babar flicks it wide of deep square leg and gets a couple.
41.1
1
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.
In over# 1
2
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 23/0(11)
40.6
2
On the pads, this time Babar flicks through mid-wicket and gets a couple to end the over.
40.5
.
Down the leg side, Azam looks to flick but misses.
40.4
.
Beautiful delivery. 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.
40.3
.
Length ball on the testing channel outside off, Babar shoulders arms to it.
40.2
.
Outside off, Babar leaves it alone.
40.1
.
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.
Change of ends for Broad.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sam Curran 19/1(9)
39.6
.
Fuller on the stumps, Shafiq blocks it and gets through the over.
39.5
.
On off, AS keeps it out.
39.4
.
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.
39.3
.
On off, Shafiq keeps it out.
39.2
.
Full on off, Asad defends it by bending his back.
39.1
.
Length ball on middle and leg, Asad flicks it to mid-wicket against the angle.
In over# 1
0
2
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 35/2(15)
38.6
.
BEATEN! Short delivery outside off, Azam looks to cut but misses it.
38.5
2
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.
38.4
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azam looks to defend but misses it.
38.3
.
On a good length on middle, Babar keeps it out.
38.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Azam offers a solid defense on this one.
38.1
.
BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Azam looks to push but misses it.
In over# 1
0
0
0W
2
0
4
Sam Curran 19/1(8)
37.6
.
Good length ball around off, this one is forced towards point. End of a successful over from Curran.
37.5
.
Play and a miss! Curran bowls this around middle and takes it away again as Shafiq pokes at it to get beaten.
Asad Shafiq is in now.
37.4
W
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.
37.3
2
On a length on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg. The batsmen get two runs.
37.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out.
37.1
4
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.
In over# 1
4
0
0
1
0
2
James Anderson 33/2(14)
36.6
4
FOUR! That is whipped! Slightly shortish and on the pads, Babar flicks it powerfully through mid-wicket. Times it superbly and bags a boundary.
36.5
.
Wide outside off on a good length. Babar is not going after these.
36.4
.
In the channel outside off, Azam lets it be.
36.3
1
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.
36.2
.
Outside off, this one is left alone by Abid.
36.1
2
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.
In over# 1
0
0
0
2
0
0
Sam Curran 13/0(7)
35.6
.
A dot to end as this one is pushed towards the cover fielder off the back foot.
35.5
.
On off, played towards mid off.
35.4
.
Fullish and around middle, Babar pushes it back to the bowler.
35.3
2
Shortish and around middle, Babar tucks it behind square leg for a couple of runs.
35.2
.
This time he is right behind the line of the ball to block it towards mid on.
35.1
.
Good length ball around off, Babar looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
2
James Anderson 26/2(13)
34.6
.
Play and a miss! Good length ball just outside off, Abid pokes at the ball to get beaten.
34.5
.
Fuller and around off, this one is played at mid-wicket.
34.4
.
Around off, blocked nicely towards the off side.
34.3
.
Another good length ball around off, Abid keeps it out.
34.2
.
Good length ball around off, blocked.
34.1
2
FIFTY FOR ABID! Maiden fifty for him! 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 a 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.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sam Curran 11/0(6)
33.6
.
Fuller and around off, Babar comes forward and keeps it out off his front foot.
James Anderson to bowl from the other end.
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.
... Day 1, Session 3 ...
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.
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 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.
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 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 1353 GMT (1453 local) - The rain has stopped and the umpires will be having an inspection at 1515 local.
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.
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.
33.5
.
On a good length on middle, Azam keeps it out.
33.4
.
Length delivery on off, Babar taps it to point.
33.3
.
Full delivery on middle, Azam drives it back towards the bowler.
33.2
.
On a good length and outside off, Azam leaves it alone.
33.1
.
Good length delivery outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one.
Sam Curran is back on. 5-0-11-0 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
3
0
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 24/2(12)
32.6
3
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.
32.5
.
Good length delivery on off, Babar defends it out.
32.4
.
On a good length on middle, Azam offers a solid defense on this one.
32.3
.
Good length delivery on off, Azam keeps it out.
32.2
.
On a good length and outside off, Azam offers no shot to this one.
32.1
.
Good length delivery on off, Azam defends it off the back foot.
In over# 1
0
0
0
3
0
0
Stuart Broad 21/0(10)
31.6
.
Full again on off, Abid drives it back towards the bowler.
31.5
.
Full delivery on off, Abid drives it to covers.
31.4
.
On a good length on off, Abid keeps it out.
31.3
3
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.
31.2
.
Full delivery on off, Azam drives it to covers.
31.1
.
On a good length on off, Azam defends it off the back foot.
In over# 1
1
0W
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 21/2(11)
30.6
1
Babar is off the mark! Good length ball on off, Azam punches it to the off side and keeps the strike.
Babar Azam is the new batsman in.
30.5
W
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 Ali looks to defend it away from his body but the ball shapes away from him and takes the outside edge. It goes low to the right of second slip and Rory Burns this time makes no mistake and takes a good low catch. Azhar Ali's fighting innings comes to an end. Another failure to get a big score for the Pakistan skipper and the pressure on him will continue to mount. The 72-run stand is broken and England have their first success of the session.
30.4
.
On a good length on off, Azhar defends it with soft hands towards third slip.
30.3
.
Good length delivery on off, Azhar blocks it off the back foot.
30.2
.
Short delivery on off, Azhar cuts it to point.
30.1
.
Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to mid-wicket.
In over# 1
0
2
0
4
0
0
Stuart Broad 18/0(9)
29.6
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out.
29.5
2
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.
29.4
.
Good length delivery on middle, Abid looks to flick but gets hit on the thigh pad.
29.3
4
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.
29.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid blocks it off the front foot.
29.1
.
On a length on middle, Abid flicks it to mid-wicket.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 20/1(10)
28.6
.
On a good length on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot.
28.5
1
Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a run.
28.4
.
Length delivery on middle, Abid flicks it to mid-wicket.
28.3
.
On a good length on off, Abid blocks it off the front foot.
28.2
.
BEATEN AGAIN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it due to the seam movement on this one.
28.1
.
BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 12/0(8)
27.6
.
Fuller and around off and middle, Azhar does well to keep it out.
27.5
.
Good length ball around off and middle, Azhar looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads.
27.4
.
Another one in the channel outside off, an easy leave.
27.3
.
Outside off, Azhar once again lets it go to Buttler.
27.2
.
Good take from Buttler. The ball swung back later after going past the batsman. Buttler does well to pouch the ball to his right.
27.1
.
Good length ball around off, comes back in well. However, Azhar reads the length nicely and watches it go to the keeper.
In over# 1
0
0
4
0
0
0
James Anderson 19/1(9)
26.6
.
A leave on the last ball as this is wide outside off.
26.5
.
Around off, blocked.
26.4
4
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.
26.3
.
This time he leaves it.
26.2
.
Beaten! Shortish and outside off, Abid forces it towards the ball with hard hands but is beaten.
26.1
.
Good length ball around off, Abid works it towards mid-wicket.
In over# 1
0
0
1
4
0
0
Stuart Broad 12/0(7)
25.6
.
Good length ball around off, blocked off the back foot.
25.5
.
A leave from the Pakistani skipper as this is outside off on a good length.
25.4
1
On middle, Abid tucks it towards the leg side and calls for a quick single.
25.3
4
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.
25.2
.
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.
25.1
.
Good length ball around off, blocked.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 15/1(8)
24.6
.
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 on rolled in and showed that there was little spike as the ball went past the bat. Just a little. That would've got the third umpire thinking had Root taken it upstairs.
24.5
.
On middle, worked towards the leg side.
24.4
.
On the pads on a fuller length, Azhar finds mid-wicket with his flick.
24.3
.
Outside off, Azhar shoulders arms.
24.2
.
Shortish and around off and middle, Azhar tucks it towards mid-wicket.
24.1
.
Fullish and outside off, Azhar lets it be.
James Anderson to bowl from the other end.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 7/0(6)
23.6
.
Goes a bit fuller but outside off, left alone. Buttler behind the wicket fumbles but no extra run.
23.5
.
Beauty to begin the second session! A good length ball just outside off, Abid has a tentative poke at it to get beaten.
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.
... Day 1, Session 2 ...
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 hope when we return for the 2nd session, there is no rain around and we get another engrossing session of play.
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 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.
23.4
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it due to the inward movement on this one.
23.3
.
On a good length on off, Abid defends it out.
23.2
.
Good length delivery on middle, Abid blocks it off the front foot.
23.1
.
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.
Stuart Broad back for his second spell! 5-2-7-0, his numbers so far.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
James Anderson 15/1(7)
22.6
.
On a good length on off, Azhar keeps it out.
22.5
.
Short delivery outside off, Azhar looks to cut but misses it.
22.4
.
Good length delivery on off, Azhar defends it off the front foot.
22.3
.
On a good length on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot.
22.2
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to cut but misses it.
22.1
.
On a length on middle, Azhar pushes it to mid-wicket.
In over# 1
0
1
2
1
2
0
Chris Woakes 21/0(6)
21.6
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it.
21.5
1
Length delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it towards fine leg for a single.
21.4
2
Full delivery on off, Azhar drives it through covers. The batsmen get two runs.
21.3
1
Full again on middle, Abid flicks it towards mid on and takes a quick single.
21.2
2
Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg. The batsmen get two runs.
21.1
.
On the pads, Abid flicks it to the right of mid-wicket and comes out for a run but then quickly shouts no.
In over# 1
0
0
4
0
0
1
James Anderson 15/1(6)
20.6
.
Outside off, the Pakistan Test skipper lets it carry to the keeper.
20.5
.
On middle, Azhar blocks it.
20.4
4
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.
20.3
.
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.
20.2
.
Fullish on middle, Azhar defends it with a straight bat.
20.1
1
Anderson bowls it on middle and leg, Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a single.
James Anderson is back on. 5-1-10-1 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
1
Chris Woakes 15/0(5)
19.6
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it.
19.5
.
On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot.
19.4
.
Good length delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to square leg.
19.3
1
On a length on off, Abid taps it towards point for a single.
19.2
.
Good length delivery outside off, Abid shoulders arms to this one.
19.1
1
Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through square leg for a run. 50 up for Pakistan!
In over# 1
1
0
3
0
0
0
Sam Curran 11/0(5)
18.6
1
Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through square leg for a run.
18.5
.
On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot.
18.4
3
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.
18.3
.
Good length delivery on middle, Abid keeps it out.
18.2
.
On a good length on off, Abid offers a solid defense on this one.
18.1
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it off the back foot.
In over# 1
1
0
0
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 13/0(4)
17.6
1
Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a single.
17.5
.
Shortish and around middle, Abid keeps it out.
17.4
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid blocks it well.
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.
17.3
.
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.
17.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it off the back foot.
17.1
.
BEATEN! Short delivery outside off, Abid looks to defend but misses it.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
1
Sam Curran 7/0(4)
16.6
.
Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it to square leg.
16.5
.
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.
16.4
.
Full delivery on off, Azhar drives it to mid off.
16.3
.
Length delivery on off, Azhar plays it to covers.
16.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Azhar defends it off the back foot.
16.1
1
On a length on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 12/0(3)
15.6
.
Good length delivery outside off, Azhar offers no shot to this one.
15.5
.
On a good length and outside off, Azhar leaves it alone.
15.4
.
Full delivery on middle, Azhar drives it to mid on.
15.3
.
Outside off, Azhar does not bother to play at that.
15.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot.
15.1
.
On a good length and outside off, Azhar shoulders arms to this one.
In over# 1
0
1
1
0
0
0
Sam Curran 6/0(3)
14.6
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid defends it out.
14.5
1
Full again on middle, Azhar flicks it through mid-wicket for a single.
14.4
1
Full delivery on middle, Abid flicks it towards fine leg for a run.
14.3
.
On a good length on middle, Abid looks to defend but misses it and gets hit on the thigh pad.
14.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out.
14.1
.
On a good length on off, Abid defends it off the back foot.
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?
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
4
Chris Woakes 12/0(2)
13.6
.
Shortish and around off, Abid keeps it out.
13.5
.
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.
13.4
.
Outside off, left alone.
13.3
1
On middle, Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a run.
13.2
.
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 Stokes who fields at second slip and one would assume England are already missing him.
13.1
4
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.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
2
Sam Curran 4/0(2)
12.6
.
Leave to end the over as Curran bowls it shortish and outside off.
12.5
.
Slightly shortish and on middle, Azhar is on the back foot to block.
12.4
.
Fuller and around off, pushed towards the mid off fielder.
12.3
.
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.
12.2
.
Shortish and around off, played to the man at mid on.
12.1
2
Shortish and on middle, Azhar tucks it towards deep square leg and scampers back for the second.
In over# 1
4
2
1
0
0
0
Chris Woakes 7/0(1)
11.6
4
FOUR! Flicked! 7 from Woakes' first! He bowls the last ball down the leg side. Abid flicks it to fine leg for a boundary.
11.5
2
Fuller and outside off, Abid drives it through the covers. He didn't time it well enough so only a couple.
11.4
1
Good length ball on middle, worked towards deep square leg for a single.
11.3
.
Outside off, left alone.
11.2
.
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.
11.1
.
He begins with a fuller one outside off, Azhar squeezes it towards point.
Chris Woakes is into the attack.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
1
Sam Curran 2/0(1)
10.6
.
On a good length on middle, Abid defends it out.
10.5
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out.
10.4
.
Full delivery on middle, Abid drives it to mid on.
10.3
.
Good length delivery on off, Abid keeps it out.
10.2
1
Length delivery on middle, Azhar drives it through mid on for a run.
10.1
1
On a length on middle, Abid flicks it through square leg for a single.
First change of the morning as Sam Curran comes on to bowl now.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
0
1
Stuart Broad 7/0(5)
9.6
.
Good length around off, blocked coming forward.
9.5
1
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.
9.4
.
Angled in a good length, Abid looks to defend but misses and gets hit high on the pads.
9.3
.
Good length ball around off, this time he keeps it out solidly towards the cover fielder.
9.2
.
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.
9.1
1
Quick single! Good length ball around off, Azhar pushes it towards cover-point and calls for a single.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
1
James Anderson 10/1(5)
8.6
.
This time he gets behind the line of the ball to defend it off his back foot.
8.5
.
Beaten this time! Excellent from Anderson. Pitches this just around off and makes it move away from the defensive poke of Abid.
8.4
.
Outside off, left alone.
8.3
.
Good length ball just outside off, Abid spots the away movement early and withdraws his bat at the last moment.
8.2
.
Good length ball on middle, it is played towards mid on.
8.1
1
On the pads, Azhar flicks it to deep square leg for an easy single.
In over# 1
0
0
4b
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 5/0(4)
7.6
.
Shortish and around off, blocked off the back foot.
7.5
.
Corrects the line and bowls this one in the channel outside off. It moves away a touch to beat the outside edge.
7.4
4b
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.
7.3
.
The batsman shows the full face of the bat and defends the ball off the back foot.
7.2
.
On off, watchfully defended again.
7.1
.
Good length ball around off, Abid defends it nicely.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
1
2
James Anderson 9/1(4)
6.6
.
Outside off on a good length, Azhar shoulders arms.
6.5
.
On off, Azhar keeps it out off his front foot.
6.4
.
Full and around off, blocked solidly.
6.3
.
Fuller and around off, pushed towards point. Abid says wait karo, wait, as the skipper wanted the run.
6.2
1
On middle, this time Abid tucks it towards fine leg for a run.
6.1
2
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.
In over# 1
2
2
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 5/0(3)
5.6
2
Full again on off, Azhar drives it through mid off. The batsmen get two runs.
5.5
2
Full delivery on middle, Azhar flicks it through mid-wicket and gets off the mark with a couple.
5.4
.
BEATEN! Good length delivery outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it due to the seam movement on this one.
5.3
.
BEATEN! On a good length and outside off, Azhar looks to defend but misses it.
5.2
.
Good length delivery on off, Azhar looks to defend but gets hit on the thigh pad.
5.1
.
On a good length and outside off, Azhar shoulders arms to this one.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
4
0
James Anderson 6/1(3)
4.6
.
This one goes away! Excellent over from Anderson. Bowls it just outside off on a good length, Abid pokes at it to get beaten.
4.5
.
On the pads, Abid looks to work it on the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads.
4.4
.
Good length ball on middle, Abid keeps it out off his back foot.
4.3
.
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.
4.2
4
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.
4.1
.
On a good length on off, Azhar blocks it off the front foot.
In over# 1
0
0
0
1
0
0
Stuart Broad 1/0(2)
3.6
.
Outside off, left alone.
3.5
.
Shortish and around off, forced towards point.
3.4
.
Fuller and around off, blocked.
3.3
1
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 will this be for England?
3.2
.
Good from Broad as well. He is bowling that probing line around off stump on a good length. This one is right up there too. Abid has a poke but misses.
3.1
.
Good length ball around off, Abid is on the back foot to defend.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0W
0
James Anderson 2/1(2)
2.6
.
Shortish and around off, Azhar fends it towards the slip cordon. End of a successful over from Anderson.
2.5
.
Fuller and on middle, stroked to mid on.
2.4
.
Fuller and around middle, Azhar keeps it out off his front foot.
2.3
.
A leave to begin from the Pakistani skipper as this is a good length ball just outside off but Azhar has his stumps covered.
Azhar Ali, the skipper, is the next batsman in.
2.2
W
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 he is 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 start.
2.1
.
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.
In over# 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Stuart Broad 0/0(1)
1.6
.
A maiden from Broad to begin his spell as the last ball is wide outside off on a good length. Abid shoulders arms.
1.5
.
Around off on a good length, Abid looks to defend but gets an inside edge on the pads.
1.4
.
Another leave as Abid does not accept this drive offer from Broad who lures with a fullish one outside off.
1.3
.
This time Abid says I am not poking at this as it is wide outside off.
1.2
.
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.
1.1
.
A fuller one around off to begin by Broad. Abid keeps it out off his front foot.
Stuart Broad to bowl from the other end. Three slips and a gully in place.
In over# 1
0
4lb
1
0
0
1
James Anderson 2/0(1)
0.6
.
A leave to end the over! Shortish and outside off, Masood shoulders arms as it moves further away.
0.5
4lb
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.
0.4
1
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.
0.3
.
Another one with an away movement but this one is little wide outside off, Abid lets it go to the keeper.
0.2
.
Beaten! Good away movement there for Anderson. Good length ball just around off, moves away a hint to beat the poke of Abid.
0.1
1
Run straightaway! Anderson bowls this good length ball just outside off, Masood pushes it towards point and takes a single.
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...
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. Finishes by saying he is very much looking forward to bowl first on this wicket.
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.
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.
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.
TOSS - Pakistan win the toss and elect to bat first.
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 in the first one 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 this game. Will they make any changes? Who will replace Stokes in the English side? All these questions will be answered shortly after the toss. Don't go away!
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