Smith rescues England after Abbas strikes for Pakistan: 2nd Test, Day 1 (Lords)

Pakistan bounced back strongly after their heavy Headingley defeat, dominating much of a rain-shortened opening day at Lord’s.

Asked to bat first, England were reduced to 120/5, with veteran seamer Mohammad Abbas the outstanding bowler, taking 4/56 and reaching 900 first-class wickets. Joe Root was dismissed for just 4, adding to England’s early problems.

England recovered through Jordan Cox (55) and Jamie Smith (61), who added 67 for the sixth wicket, before Gus Atkinson (34)* helped push the hosts to 248/9 from 56 overs.

Mohammad Ali claimed 3/67, while Pakistan missed several chances in the field. Bad light ended play early, leaving Pakistan with the clear advantage but England still within sight of a respectable total.

England 248 for 9 (Smith 61, Cox 55, Abbas 4-56, Mohammad Ali 3-67) vs Pakistan.

Aug 2026.