James Anderson finds his edge as England make inroads into Pakistan on stop-start first day of second Test
A week ago it was James Anderson’s mood that was broody and dark rather than the weather. But while sullen skies eventually cut short the first day of the second Test, at least Anderson wore a sunnier disposition.
Anderson’s anger at his first Test performance in Manchester was replaced by the satisfaction of two for 35 in bowling conditions perfectly designed for his skills, as well as improving his frame of mind.
With the ball seaming and swinging, and the floodlights on for most of a humid, stormy day, Pakistan’s batsmen faced an almost impossible task against England’s attack.
At 126 for five Pakistan hopes rest on Babar Azam, their most accomplished batsman, but Anderson has a look in his eye, determined to prove his time is not up and that last week was an aberration rather than a sign of something more terminal for his career.
With heavy clouds forecast again, batting is unlikely to become easier and Joe Root has plenty of skilled seam and swing bowling options at his disposal. England can go a long way towards firming up a series winning position today with Pakistan’s tail long and Root’s own batsmen, in theory, better equipped to play in home conditions. Had England held their catches, Pakistan would be in deeper trouble.
England started this summer with a plan for the Ashes in their back pocket. Top of the list was selecting one of their firecracker fast bowlers in each game. They even put three promising county quicks on quasi central contracts to increase the pool. Broad was dropped for the first Test, and Jofra Archer took the new ball. But the old legends, Broad and Anderson, are back in full control, while it was clear Archer would not be playing when he kept wicket in the warm up, left out for Sam Curran.
Anderson probably would not have played this Test had he enjoyed a good game at Emirates Old Trafford. This would have been an obvious one for him to miss after playing three in a row and looking leggy in Manchester, but because his performance sparked a few wild rumours he was about to quit, Root wanted to give Anderson an immediate chance to make a point.
Five weeks ago Archer and Mark Wood played together at the Ageas Bowl with England convinced their partnership could blow West Indies away now they both are running the drinks. Archer has not helped himself with his performances, and his reluctance to bowl quickly last week hardly made him a first choice pick. This is the right attack for this Test, given the conditions that were forecast all week and a pitch with more grass on it but we don’t know if Archer is ready for the new ball or if Wood has built up his stamina.
Anderson’s Test started badly in Manchester as he became annoyed by his inability to find Shan Masood’s edge. Somehow Masood survived a new ball working over outside off stump to make his highest Test score. But the 156 has been followed by nought and one here. This time Anderson needed just eight balls to have him lbw hitting middle and off.
DON'T WRITE HIM OFF!
Jimmy Anderson strikes early, Shan Masood (1) plumb lbw! Great start for England and Pakistan are 6-1.
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/9TeyyGz0d9
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/XO9qmNjAOO pic.twitter.com/3QcmcbG2Xf— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
England could have had four wickets by lunch. They dropped two catches and failed to review a thin edge. Abid Ali was put down on one and 21 by England’s slip cordon rejigged in the absence of Ben Stokes. Dom Sibley grabbed at a chance to his left at third slip off Broad, and Rory Burns made a mess of a dolly at second slip off Woakes, taking the ball with his hands pointing up like the wicketkeeper he used to be.
The match started in perfect batting conditions, hot and sunny but the atmosphere was heavy and Broad soon called for his inhaler, finding it hard to breathe. It was about short, five over spells for England’s bowlers.
Azhar Ali and Abid rebuilt, somehow surviving to add 72. They were a few anxious pokes with angled bats and little foot movement as England sensed wickets. Only Root at first slip went up when Azhar feathered an edge off Anderson on 20. Probably lucky Anderson did not see the replay, given the slight squiggle that showed up on Snickometer.
It mattered little. Azhar did not add to his score. Anderson ran in from the hotel end against the backdrop of a black cloud gathering and a lightning flash in the distance. Azhar must have known the rain was coming. But between the lightning flash and the crackle of thunder, he edged Anderson to Burns low down, who made no mistake second time around.
The rain came at 85 for two, and the teams went off for nearly two hours. When they resumed, 85 for two became 126 for five, England totally in control.
Abid ground his way to 60, reaching his fifty off 99 balls with an edge for four through the slips, but Curran showed his skills, swinging the ball away from the right hander with a thick edge flying to Burns.
Asad Shafiq played a soft poke at Broad, with Sibley a relieved man as he held on at slip. It brought Fawad Alam to the crease in his first Test for 11 years. Fawad had replaced Shadab Khan, the theory being he bolstered the batting. Fawad averages 56 in first-class cricket where he has spent more than a decade in the wilderness. In that time he has opened his stance to such an extent he was completely chest on, more so than Peter Willey or Shiv Chanderpaul, with his bat face pointing at square leg. He moved over in line as the bowler ran in.
Eleven years is a long time to wait for another Test innings but it was over in four balls, lbw to Chris Woakes on review after five minutes. Cruel game, cricket.
05:36 PMSTUMPS
STUMPS
Well, that is that. As if there was any surprise. A truncated day. Stay tuned for Nick Hoult's match report after a decent start for England.
05:32 PMHow has this not been called off yet?
How has this not been called off yet?
Staggering...
05:20 PMDoesn't look like there will be any more play...
Doesn't look like there will be any more play...
But that is not yet confirmed.
04:57 PMPlay still could resume...
Play still could resume...
But it is looking increasingly unlikely. A great shame, especially for England who are well on top.
04:39 PMBad light is causing the problem, the rain has stopped
Bad light is causing the problem, the rain has stopped
The floodlights are not helping much. The players have until 7pm to get back onto the pitch.
04:36 PMAnd now some bad news!
And now some bad news!
The covers are going back on. The clouds have reappeared and it is very dark.
Play, sadly, now looks very unlikely.
04:20 PMThe umpires are now out on the ground having a look around
The umpires are now out on the ground having a look around
Promising signs.
04:18 PMThe ground staff are out on the pitch
The ground staff are out on the pitch
They are using the rope to dry the outfield and some of the wider covers are coming off. There could still be more play today.
04:16 PMMichael Vaughan thinks Shadab Khan should have remained in the side - he did play well at Old Trafford
Spot on ... and bowls ... and is a great fielder ... and is a great energiser for the team ... and is a fantastic cricket thinker !!!!!! https://t.co/XBPZyYWxmG
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) August 13, 2020
04:08 PMThe rain is not too heavy, but the clouds are still there
Michael Vaughan thinks Shadab Khan should have remained in the side - he did play well at Old Trafford
Spot on ... and bowls ... and is a great fielder ... and is a great energiser for the team ... and is a fantastic cricket thinker !!!!!! https://t.co/XBPZyYWxmG
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) August 13, 2020
04:08 PMThe rain is not too heavy, but the clouds are still there
The rain is not too heavy, but the clouds are still there
There could be more rain to come.
03:59 PMThe weather is a real shame for England
The weather is a real shame for England
They have been excellent since they resumed. Three wickets. Pakistan will be glad for a chance to get out of these tricky batting conditions.
03:58 PMOVER 46: Pakistan 126/5 (Babar 25* Rizwan 4*)
OVER 46: Pakistan 126/5 (Babar 25* Rizwan 4*)
Woakes starts the over a little full, and is worked for one by Rizwan. Dark clouds are forming over the ground.
Woakes is too straight this time, Babar clips for a single down to fine leg. He comes back well with an excellent delivery, swinging and nipping away.
And the players are coming off! The rain has started.
03:55 PMThe Chris Woakes wicket via this review
OUT! ✅
Chris Woakes in on the act now for England, taking his first as he traps Fawad Alam lbw for 0 - given out on review.
Pakistan 120-5 🏴🇵🇰 #ENGvPAK #️⃣ #raisethebat
📺 Watch 👉 https://t.co/lh0kBsbU58
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/cOzg0C5MWI
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
03:55 PMOVER 45: Pakistan 124/5 (Babar 24* Rizwan 3*)
The Chris Woakes wicket via this review
OUT! ✅
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
Chris Woakes in on the act now for England, taking his first as he traps Fawad Alam lbw for 0 - given out on review.
Pakistan 120-5 🏴🇵🇰 #ENGvPAK #️⃣ #raisethebat
📺 Watch 👉 https://t.co/lh0kBsbU58
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/cOzg0C5MWI
03:55 PMOVER 45: Pakistan 124/5 (Babar 24* Rizwan 3*)
OVER 45: Pakistan 124/5 (Babar 24* Rizwan 3*)
Broad continues. His first ball nips back into pads but is inside edged away for one by Babar. The ground staff are getting prepared to come on, shame.
Broad over pitches and Rizwan drives it back past him for three. Lovely shot. Babar then inside edges the next delivery. Broad then nips one past him with some extra bounce. Terrific bowling.
03:51 PMOVER 44: Pakistan 120/5 (Babar 23* Rizwan 0*)
OVER 44: Pakistan 120/5 (Babar 23* Rizwan 0*)
Mohammad Rizwan survives his first delivery from Woakes.
03:49 PMREVIEW: WICKET! Fawad Alam lbw Woakes 0
REVIEW: WICKET! Fawad Alam lbw Woakes 0
No bat involved, the question is did it pitch outside leg? It pitches in line, straightens and his hitting the top of middle. Terrific review!
The long awaited return does not go to plan...
FOW: Pakistan 120/4
03:47 PMOVER 44: Pakistan 120/4 (Babar 23* Fawad 0*)
OVER 44: Pakistan 120/4 (Babar 23* Fawad 0*)
Woakes is back into the attack. His first ball swings away, plenty of movement still. He then strays too straight and Babar clips him for three. England have allowed too many runs off the pads today.
Big appeal! Fawad is caught on the crease, not out given. England will review!
03:43 PMBit more on Fawad Alam
2009 - Fawad Alam is set to make his first Test appearance since 2009; he's posted scores of 43, 116, 211 & 65 in his last 4 first-class innings. Recalled. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/9LBOr6WqD9
— OptaJim (@OptaJim) August 13, 2020
03:43 PMOVER 43: Pakistan 117/4 (Babar 20* Fawad 0*)
Bit more on Fawad Alam
2009 - Fawad Alam is set to make his first Test appearance since 2009; he's posted scores of 43, 116, 211 & 65 in his last 4 first-class innings. Recalled. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/9LBOr6WqD9
— OptaJim (@OptaJim) August 13, 2020
03:43 PMOVER 43: Pakistan 117/4 (Babar 20* Fawad 0*)
OVER 43: Pakistan 117/4 (Babar 20* Fawad 0*)
Sibley is now 1 from 2 in the slips, Burns 2 from 3. Out comes Fawad Alam, for the first time in Tests since 2009.
Fawad bats a bit like Shivnarine Chanderpaul, but even more square - he then pivots round as the ball is delivered. Plenty going on with his stance...
Play and miss to see out the over.
03:40 PMWICKET! Asad Shafiq c Sibley b Broad 5
WICKET! Asad Shafiq c Sibley b Broad 5
Asad plays at one wide of off-stump and edges it to Sibley at third slip. Low catch, well taken. England are on top now!
FOW: 117/4
03:38 PMOVER 43: Pakistan 117/3 (Babar 20* Asad 5*)
OVER 43: Pakistan 117/3 (Babar 20* Asad 5*)
Broad is too full and too leg-side, Asad clips away for four. Lovely shot, greeted by cheers from the Pakistan dressing room who have been much quieter today than at Old Trafford.
03:37 PMJames Anderson, motivated, bowling well this match - and a touch quicker than the last few years!
James Anderson's average speed in this Test so far is 135.95kph/84.5mph.
That's his highest average speed in a home Test (first two innings of the match) since August 2014. #ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
03:36 PMOVER 42: Pakistan 113/3 (Babar 20* Asad 1*)
James Anderson, motivated, bowling well this match - and a touch quicker than the last few years!
James Anderson's average speed in this Test so far is 135.95kph/84.5mph.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
That's his highest average speed in a home Test (first two innings of the match) since August 2014. #ENGvPAK
03:36 PMOVER 42: Pakistan 113/3 (Babar 20* Asad 1*)
OVER 42: Pakistan 113/3 (Babar 20* Asad 1*)
Curran gets a bit of bounce from a length, it hits Asad on the gloves and runs away for single. He's off the mark!
Babar clips it away for two, he likes it on his pads. Curran comes back with a bouncer, possibly the first genuine short ball of the innings. Babar then takes one.
Curran gets his line wrong, it hits Asad's pad, two leg byes collected.
03:32 PMHere is the Sam Curran wicket
Sam Curran doing Sam Curran things 🙌
Scorecard/Clips: https://t.co/yjhVDqBbVN#ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/JKzf01LoiP
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 13, 2020
03:31 PMOVER 41: Pakistan 106/3 (Babar 17* Asad 0*)
Here is the Sam Curran wicket
Sam Curran doing Sam Curran things 🙌
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 13, 2020
Scorecard/Clips: https://t.co/yjhVDqBbVN#ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/JKzf01LoiP
03:31 PMOVER 41: Pakistan 106/3 (Babar 17* Asad 0*)
OVER 41: Pakistan 106/3 (Babar 17* Asad 0*)
Broad is into the attack, after a superb over from Anderson at Babar from this end. He must have run out of steam a touch.
The first ball of the over is driven towards mid-on and Anderson makes a diving save. Great fielding! Maybe he hasn't run out of steam after all.
Broad bowls an absolute peach. It jags away off the seam, squaring up Babar. Can't play those! He follows it up with one that nips back, but it is off line and goes down leg.
Babar clips Broad away for two to see out the over.
03:26 PMOVER 40: Pakistan 104/3 (Babar 15* Asad 0*)
OVER 40: Pakistan 104/3 (Babar 15* Asad 0*)
Asad blocks Curran four deliveries on the bounce. He tries to pinch a single from the last before being sent back. Never a run there. Remember he was run out at Old Trafford!
Two more blocks see out the over, maiden.
03:24 PMOVER 39: Pakistan 104/3 (Babar 15* Asad 0*)
OVER 39: Pakistan 104/3 (Babar 15* Asad 0*)
Anderson continues at the other end, drawing a play and miss from Babar. He is the wicket England desperately want.
And another play and miss. Anderson is shaping it in, nipping away. Very tough to face, plenty of movement. Next ball he draws an edge, but it flies through the vacant gully region for two. Pope did well to save a third.
Another play and miss closes the over! Anderson is all over Babar. He has also bowled 15 of the completed 39 overs, steady from the 38-year-old.
03:19 PMOVER 38: Pakistan 102/3 (Babar 13* Asad 0*)
OVER 38: Pakistan 102/3 (Babar 13* Asad 0*)
Curran starts with an away-swinger to Asad Shafiq, play and miss.
03:17 PMWICKET! Abid Ali c Burns b Curran 60
WICKET! Abid Ali c Burns b Curran 60
Super bowling. Four big in-swingers in a row, followed up by the away swinger which just kept going, taking the edge to Burns at second slip. Bit of extra bounce from that ball too.
Well bowled.
FOW: 102/3
03:16 PMOVER 38: Pakistan 102/2 (Babar 13* Abid 60*)
OVER 38: Pakistan 102/2 (Babar 13* Abid 60*)
Curran is too straight, and Abid clips him for four, beating fine leg. 100 up for Pakistan! This match is being set up nicely.
The left armer is too straight again, this time clipped for two.
03:13 PMIt has not been a vintage fifty from Abid Ali...
Abid Ali reaches his half-century, doing so having missed or edged 35% of his shots.
That's the 13th highest false shot percentage for a Test half-century in the last decade.#ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
03:13 PMOVER 37: Pakistan 96/2 (Babar 13* Abid 54*)
It has not been a vintage fifty from Abid Ali...
Abid Ali reaches his half-century, doing so having missed or edged 35% of his shots.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
That's the 13th highest false shot percentage for a Test half-century in the last decade.#ENGvPAK
03:13 PMOVER 37: Pakistan 96/2 (Babar 13* Abid 54*)
OVER 37: Pakistan 96/2 (Babar 13* Abid 54*)
Abid punches the first ball of the over for two through the covers. Anderson digs one in which is gloved away into leg side for a single.
Anderson is a touch straight and Babar whips it through mid-wicket for four. Classy shot!
03:09 PMOVER 36: Pakistan 89/2 (Babar 9* Abid 51*)
OVER 36: Pakistan 89/2 (Babar 9* Abid 51*)
Curran drops a tad short and is clipped away by Babar for two. He plays out the rest of the over with ease.
03:05 PMOVER 35: Pakistan 87/2 (Babar 7* Abid 51*)
OVER 35: Pakistan 87/2 (Babar 7* Abid 51*)
Anderson to start from the other end. Abid edges the ball through the slips, bringing up his fifty! Streaky but valuable runs!
Fair play, he has hung in in tricky conditions.
Anderson continues probing, drawing a play and miss.
03:00 PMOVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
OVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
Curran to complete his over, only seven overs have been lost today somehow!
Dot ball ends the over.
02:59 PMPlay is about to begin
Play is about to begin
Here we go!
02:52 PMJames Anderson has been terrific so far today
James Anderson has been terrific so far today
He will have wanted to silence his critics, and Anderson already has. 12 overs, 2 wickets for 24 runs.
Typical Jimmy. He isn't going anywhere!
02:43 PMGood news! Play to restart at 4pm!
Good news! Play to restart at 4pm!
They have taken an early tea so it will be all action from 4, weather permitting.
02:35 PMSome more rain break reading
Some more rain break reading
Scyld Berry on why leading Pakistan is one of the toughest jobs in cricket
Azhar has been a quiet achiever - one of the few visiting batsmen from any country to have scored a Test double-century in Australia - during his decade in international cricket as a solid top-order batsman. But the raucous reaction to Pakistan’s defeat, and the vituperation heaped upon Azhar, have come at the opposite end of the scale to his innate quietness. They illustrate how important, rightly or wrongly, Pakistan’s cricket captain is to his country.
02:23 PMBad news!
Bad news!
There will be another inspection at 3.45pm, the wait continues.
02:19 PMThe inspection is currently taking place
The inspection is currently taking place
The covers are still on but it has stopped raining. The umpires look sceptical as they chat to the ground staff.
There are still some clouds lurking overhead.
01:53 PMThere will be a pitch inspection at 3.15pm!
There will be a pitch inspection at 3.15pm!
The ground staff are mopping up the water and preparing to take the covers off shortly.
01:47 PMThe weather has not been ideal for Test matches in Southampton so far this summer...
Hammering down. Should play all Test matches in the north...
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
01:36 PMA bit of rain delay reading for you
The weather has not been ideal for Test matches in Southampton so far this summer...
Hammering down. Should play all Test matches in the north...
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
01:36 PMA bit of rain delay reading for you
A bit of rain delay reading for you
This is a new golden era of fast bowling - thanks to helpful pitches... and poor batting
Read Tim Wigmore's piece in full here
01:27 PMThe rain is starting to come down a little harder now
The rain is starting to come down a little harder now
Tricky to say how long they will be off for at this point.
01:23 PMDramatic clouds in Southampton!
01:21 PMThe storm clouds are still hovering, drizzle coming down - enjoy Anderson's second wicket while we wait
ANDERSON STRIKES AGAIN! 💥
Excellent bowling to find the edge of Azhar Ali's bat and Rory Burns holds on to the catch at second slip - England enjoyed that one!
Pakistan 78-2.
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/D3EtetFIZ3
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/0W0vbKO04J pic.twitter.com/nYcFsCMQBB
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
01:20 PMOVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
Dramatic clouds in Southampton!
01:21 PMThe storm clouds are still hovering, drizzle coming down - enjoy Anderson's second wicket while we wait
ANDERSON STRIKES AGAIN! 💥
Excellent bowling to find the edge of Azhar Ali's bat and Rory Burns holds on to the catch at second slip - England enjoyed that one!
Pakistan 78-2.
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/D3EtetFIZ3
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/0W0vbKO04J pic.twitter.com/nYcFsCMQBB
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
01:20 PMOVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
The storm clouds are still hovering, drizzle coming down - enjoy Anderson's second wicket while we wait
ANDERSON STRIKES AGAIN! 💥
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
Excellent bowling to find the edge of Azhar Ali's bat and Rory Burns holds on to the catch at second slip - England enjoyed that one!
Pakistan 78-2.
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/D3EtetFIZ3
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/0W0vbKO04J pic.twitter.com/nYcFsCMQBB
01:20 PMOVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
OVER 34: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
Sam Curran is into the attack. He is getting some nice shape on, good time for him to bowl given the overheads.
He drops a touch short, but Babar carves it along the floor to Bess at point.
The rain has started to drop! They are coming off!
01:17 PMOVER 33: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
OVER 33: Pakistan 85/2 (Babar 7* Abid 49*)
The ground staff are waiting with the covers as the ominous clouds hover. Anderson is making Babar play, but he is playing it nicely thus far.
Babar is a crucial wicket. England get him soon-ish, and they would be in a superb position. He works away another three.
01:13 PMOVER 32: Pakistan 82/2 (Babar 4* Abid 49*)
OVER 32: Pakistan 82/2 (Babar 4* Abid 49*)
Babar drives Broad to the fielder at extra-cover. He plays with such confidence. Dark clouds over the ground, a storm imminent it seems.
Babar drives Broad expertly for three through the covers. Lovely shot.
01:09 PMDramatic scenes at the Ageas Bowl!
Flash of lightening as Anderson ran in to bowl that ball to Azhar. Edged to Burns at slip. He caught it. 78-2.
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
01:08 PMOVER 31: Pakistan 79/2 (Babar 1* Abid 49*)
Dramatic scenes at the Ageas Bowl!
Flash of lightening as Anderson ran in to bowl that ball to Azhar. Edged to Burns at slip. He caught it. 78-2.
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
01:08 PMOVER 31: Pakistan 79/2 (Babar 1* Abid 49*)
OVER 31: Pakistan 79/2 (Babar 1* Abid 49*)
In comes Babar Azam, Pakistan's premier batsman. He gets off the mark first ball with a single.
01:07 PMWICKET! Azhar Ali c Burns b Anderson 20
WICKET! Azhar Ali c Burns b Anderson 20
Anderson draws the edge again and this time Burns snaffles a low catch. He needed that after a poor drop earlier on. Superb from Anderson! Big wicket of the Pakistan captain.
FOW: 78/2
01:05 PMOVER 31: Pakistan 78/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 49*)
OVER 31: Pakistan 78/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 49*)
Another edge falls short. Soft hands from Azhar, one bounce to Sibley at third slip.
01:03 PMInteresting graphic: Abid has been streaky, but he is still there!
Abid Ali has only attacked five deliveries in this knock. He's waited for England's seamers to drift too full, and those deliveries are the only ones he's gone after.
He's been dropped twice, and is playing 35% false shots, but he is batting with restraint. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/1LJettvYv2
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
01:02 PMOVER 30: Pakistan 78/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 49*)
Interesting graphic: Abid has been streaky, but he is still there!
Abid Ali has only attacked five deliveries in this knock. He's waited for England's seamers to drift too full, and those deliveries are the only ones he's gone after.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
He's been dropped twice, and is playing 35% false shots, but he is batting with restraint. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/1LJettvYv2
01:02 PMOVER 30: Pakistan 78/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 49*)
OVER 30: Pakistan 78/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 49*)
Broad continues, bowling very full. Abid attempts a drive, and edges it wide of the slips for four. Close, that was a genuine edge.
Broad then hits the pads with one that nips back, going well down leg. Abid gloves one down to fine leg for two, taking him to 49.
12:57 PMOVER 29: Pakistan 72/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 43*)
OVER 29: Pakistan 72/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 43*)
Abid once again plays and misses to Anderson. England are bowling well, they just need that breakthrough. Anderson gets another to angle in and nip away significantly.
Abid inside edges a single to get off strike.
12:53 PMOVER 28: Pakistan 71/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 42*)
OVER 28: Pakistan 71/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 42*)
Azhar leaves Broad on length, and it just goes over the stumps. That was rather close. He continues to put pressure on the Pakistan captain who is on 20 from 80 deliveries. A nip-backer is just kept out to see out the over. Maiden.
Broad has been excellent again today.
False shot percentage today:
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
Stuart Broad - 44%
The other bowlers - 22%#ENGvPAK
12:48 PMOVER 27: Pakistan 71/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 42*)
OVER 27: Pakistan 71/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 42*)
Another play and miss! Anderson hits a length and it nips away, drawing a shot from Abid.
Abid then edges it along the floor for another boundary. Very good over from Anderson.
12:44 PMOVER 26: Pakistan 67/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 38*)
OVER 26: Pakistan 67/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 38*)
Broad starts his over well, play and miss from Abid to a snorter of a delivery. He then edges the ball along the ground and away for four, before picking up a single.
12:42 PMHold on a minute! That might have been edge
Hold on a minute! That might have been edge
The bat is away from everything, and there is a little spike on snicko! Root may have been right!
12:40 PMOVER 25: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
OVER 25: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
Anderson starts from the other end, the first ball gently swinging away, through to Jos Buttler.
He is moving it both ways, but Azhar is shaping nicely. And as that is written, he plays and misses. Root appeals, no-one else is interested...
12:36 PMOVER 24: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
OVER 24: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
Broad will complete his over which was interrupted by rain. The first ball of the session nips back, almost clipping off-stump. Good start.
12:32 PMThe players are out on the pitch, re-warming up
The players are out on the pitch, re-warming up
Little bit of slip practice, perhaps.
12:24 PMPlay set to restart at 1.35pm
Play set to restart at 1.35pm
Good news, play just over 10 minutes away.
12:16 PMThere were plenty of chances for England in the morning session
England's Expected Wickets - according to the deliveries they have bowled today - is 2.99.
Given the quality of their bowling, they should have taken three wickets this morning; had they taken their chances, that's where they'd be.#ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
12:06 PMThis policy does seem to have gone out of the window
Archer rested by England. What happened to picking a fast bowler in the attack?
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
There were plenty of chances for England in the morning session
England's Expected Wickets - according to the deliveries they have bowled today - is 2.99.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
Given the quality of their bowling, they should have taken three wickets this morning; had they taken their chances, that's where they'd be.#ENGvPAK
12:06 PMThis policy does seem to have gone out of the window
Archer rested by England. What happened to picking a fast bowler in the attack?
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
This policy does seem to have gone out of the window
Archer rested by England. What happened to picking a fast bowler in the attack?
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
For me, if England are playing four out and out seamers, one of Mark Wood or Jofra Archer should play. We shall see how it goes this Test.
Another option for England today was to leave out Dom Bess. Read why I thought it was a viable option for the last two Tests of the series here:
The case for Joe Root to play as England's main spinner
11:50 AMEARLY LUNCH TAKEN
EARLY LUNCH TAKEN
Lunch has been taken 10 minutes early with the rain emerging, hopefully the weather blows over. It could be on and off all afternoon, however.
It should have been England's session. But right now honours are even, Pakistan will be over the moon to be only one down.
11:49 AMEngland have been on top, but Pakistan have fought themselves back into a good position
Pakistan have defended 47% of the balls they have faced so far.
The last time that they defended this much in the first 25 overs of a Test innings was against Australia, back in October 2018.#ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
11:48 AMOVER 24: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
England have been on top, but Pakistan have fought themselves back into a good position
Pakistan have defended 47% of the balls they have faced so far.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
The last time that they defended this much in the first 25 overs of a Test innings was against Australia, back in October 2018.#ENGvPAK
11:48 AMOVER 24: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
OVER 24: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
Mohammad Amir is walking around the edge of the ground with the Pakistan T20 squad, shame he retired from Tests. Only 28-years-old, still.
Broad is back into the attack, replacing Woakes. He draws an edge from his first delivery but it bounces well short of the slips.
The ground staff are preparing themselves bring on the covers, perhaps rain is imminent.
Abid plays and misses again - and the covers are coming on, as the drizzle has started!
11:44 AMOVER 23: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
OVER 23: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
Azhar tries to cut Anderson, but it is too full. Play and miss.
Anderson then bangs it in short and it nips away, drawing another play and miss from Azhar. Maiden.
11:40 AMOVER 22: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
OVER 22: Pakistan 62/1 (Azhar 20* Abid 33*)
Woakes continues, into his sixth over on the bounce. Abid clips it away, for two. He has settled into his innings after a ropey start. Abid then pinches a quick single.
Woakes draws a drive from Azhar, unconvincing but he gets a couple before picking up a single.
11:35 AMOVER 21: Pakistan 56/1 (Azhar 17* Abid 30*)
OVER 21: Pakistan 56/1 (Azhar 17* Abid 30*)
The wicket-taker, Anderson, returns. He starts TOO STRAIGHT and is worked for one by Abid, who moves to 30.
Anderson is too short, and Azhar cuts away handsomely for four.
11:30 AMAnd here is the proof that England have strayed too straight, too often
Abid Ali has cashed in when England have drifted down the legside today. More than half of his runs so far have come behind square on the legside - with the ball swinging and the lights on, he'll take them however they come. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/4xdeXhmGhI
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
11:30 AMOVER 20: Pakistan 51/1 (Azhar 13* Abid 29*)
And here is the proof that England have strayed too straight, too often
Abid Ali has cashed in when England have drifted down the legside today. More than half of his runs so far have come behind square on the legside - with the ball swinging and the lights on, he'll take them however they come. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/4xdeXhmGhI
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
11:30 AMOVER 20: Pakistan 51/1 (Azhar 13* Abid 29*)
OVER 20: Pakistan 51/1 (Azhar 13* Abid 29*)
Mark Wood is on and off with drinks, collecting caps. Shame he is not playing, really. He must be chomping at the bit.
Woakes is too straight again, a single is clipped. 50 up for Pakistan!
England have been good but they have allowed too many runs by bowling a touch straight, letting down otherwise good overs.
Abid pushes into the offside, single. The in-swinger is well blocked by Azhar. Play and miss to the end the over.
11:26 AMOVER 19: Pakistan 49/1 (Azhar 12* Abid 28*)
OVER 19: Pakistan 49/1 (Azhar 12* Abid 28*)
Curran has only conceded 7 runs from his four overs thus far. He has bowled well, no ring rust evident.
And just as I praise him, he delivers a long half-volley which is clipped away by Abid for three runs. Azhar picks up a run, retaining the strike.
11:22 AMOVER 18: Pakistan 45/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 25*)
OVER 18: Pakistan 45/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 25*)
England have been very good, but some poor fielding and some luck is allowing Pakistan back into this game. Big 45 minutes before lunch. The session could still go either way.
Woakes starts his fourth over with a short ball that nips away, leaving Abid beaten all ends up. Woakes then hits Abid in a painful place, he has gone down. Typical levels of amusement generated.
Woakes goes wide of the crease, but Abid blocks it well, not put-off by the change of angle. Abid then picks up a single to the leg side.
11:15 AMOVER 17: Pakistan 44/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 24*)
OVER 17: Pakistan 44/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 24*)
Curran is too straight once more, another single to Abid. Flood lights are now on as the clouds roll in.
Curran draws an edge from the Pakistan captain, but it falls well short of Joe Root at first slip.
11:12 AMOVER 16: Pakistan 43/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 23*)
OVER 16: Pakistan 43/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 23*)
Woakes continues to plug away, challenging the off-stump. Maiden.
11:08 AMA superb stat, that makes horrible reading for England
Since the start of 2018, England only catch 73% of the slip catching chances that come their way. The only team in the world with a worse record is Bangladesh. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/nfHZv73Irw
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
11:08 AMOVER 15: Pakistan 43/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 23*)
A superb stat, that makes horrible reading for England
Since the start of 2018, England only catch 73% of the slip catching chances that come their way. The only team in the world with a worse record is Bangladesh. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/nfHZv73Irw
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
11:08 AMOVER 15: Pakistan 43/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 23*)
OVER 15: Pakistan 43/1 (Azhar 11* Abid 23*)
Curran continues to shape the ball in, challenging the batsmen. He strays too straight to Abid, who picks up an easy single.
Azhar then picks up a single, putting Bess under pressure who fumbles.
11:02 AMDRINKS!
DRINKS!
England have been excellent, but only have one wicket to show for it. Two dropped catches, and a ball that hit the stumps but did not dislodge the bails.
Pakistan are just about hanging in there...
11:01 AMOVER 14: Pakistan 41/1 (Azhar 9* Abid 22*)
OVER 14: Pakistan 41/1 (Azhar 9* Abid 22*)
A hooping away swinger on leg stump is tickled just past Buttler for four more runs.
ANOTHER DROPPED CATCH! Woakes bowls a perfect away swinger, perfect height for Burns at second slip who puts it down. That was dreadful.
Abid then clips it away for one, he is living a very charmed life!
10:58 AMHow unlucky was Chris Woakes here!
SO CLOSE!
Woakes into the attack and he hits the stumps second ball - but the bails stay on!
Azhar Ali survives and Pakistan are 30-1. 🏴🇵🇰🏏
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/D3EtetFIZ3
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/0W0vbKO04J pic.twitter.com/XF8hp0eBoq
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
10:57 AMOVER 13: Pakistan 36/1 (Azhar 9* Abid 17*)
How unlucky was Chris Woakes here!
SO CLOSE!
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
Woakes into the attack and he hits the stumps second ball - but the bails stay on!
Azhar Ali survives and Pakistan are 30-1. 🏴🇵🇰🏏
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/D3EtetFIZ3
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/0W0vbKO04J pic.twitter.com/XF8hp0eBoq
10:57 AMOVER 13: Pakistan 36/1 (Azhar 9* Abid 17*)
OVER 13: Pakistan 36/1 (Azhar 9* Abid 17*)
Curran is once again too short, Azhar collects an easy two - pressure is just starting to be relieved here.
The left armer then fires in a yorker which swings big, well kept out by Azhar.
Good end to the over by Curran.
10:54 AMOVER 12: Pakistan 34/1 (Azhar 7* Abid 17*)
OVER 12: Pakistan 34/1 (Azhar 7* Abid 17*)
Double change! Chris Woakes - the hero from Old Trafford - is on. He starts very full, swinging the ball away.
Big lbw shout! The ball to Azhar is very straight but looked high. The ball then trickles onto the stumps, but not with enough momentum to take the bails off! How unlucky is that! The ball was not even rolling that slowly!
The Pakistan captain, in desperate need of runs, survives. He then works a single to fine leg.
Woakes bowls a half-volley, duly driven through the covers for two by Abid. He then clips the ball for four, very fine beating fine leg comfortably.
10:48 AMEngland really have been excellent this morning
Excellent start from Broad and Anderson. They've drawn 38% false shots in the first 10 overs here, an edge or a miss coming every three balls.
Their Expected Average (based on balls bowled) is 16.7, their lowest at this stage of a home innings since Headingley 2019.#ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
10:48 AMOVER 11: Pakistan 27/1 (Azhar 6* Abid 11*)
England really have been excellent this morning
Excellent start from Broad and Anderson. They've drawn 38% false shots in the first 10 overs here, an edge or a miss coming every three balls.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
Their Expected Average (based on balls bowled) is 16.7, their lowest at this stage of a home innings since Headingley 2019.#ENGvPAK
10:48 AMOVER 11: Pakistan 27/1 (Azhar 6* Abid 11*)
OVER 11: Pakistan 27/1 (Azhar 6* Abid 11*)
Sam Curran is into the attack, after a couple of matches on the sidelines.
He starts a tad short, and is flicked away for one by Abid. Curran is then full to Azhar, who sneaks a quick single, good running.
Curran is getting a little bit of shape back into the right-hander, nothing too extravagant.
10:44 AMOVER 10: Pakistan 25/1 (Azhar 5* Abid 10*)
OVER 10: Pakistan 25/1 (Azhar 5* Abid 10*)
Slight delay, as Broad requests his inhaler to be brought out onto the field. Azhar then pushes it into the offside, collecting one run.
Abid once again plays and misses. He then inside edges it away for a single.
Broad has been very full this morning.
Stuart Broad has been very full today. 46% of his deliveries so far have been full; 54% have been good length; 0% have been short. #ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
10:39 AMOVER 9: Pakistan 23/1 (Azhar 5* Abid 9*)
OVER 9: Pakistan 23/1 (Azhar 5* Abid 9*)
Azhar picks up a single from the first ball of the over. Another play and miss from Abid - shape in, nip away. Tough to play those! Anderson draws another play and miss, same routine. Pakistan just need to hang in there.
10:35 AMOVER 8: Pakistan 22/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 9*)
OVER 8: Pakistan 22/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 9*)
Broad, into his fourth over, continues to dry up runs - he could have had a wicket too!
A ball nips back sharply, catching Abid's thigh pad and running away for four leg byes. Broad then nips it away from the right-hander, drawing a play and miss. Excellent bowling.
10:31 AMOVER 7: Pakistan 18/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 9*)
OVER 7: Pakistan 18/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 9*)
It is Anderson's turn to be punched down the ground, Abid collecting two this time. An inside edge then gets him off strike.
He dots up Azhar, who is being very watchful.
It has moved around this morning...
James Anderson has struggled to swing the ball this summer - but he's got it moving this morning. He's found an average of 2.03° swing this morning - only once in his last 10 home innings has he found more at this stage. #ENGvPAK
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
10:27 AMOVER 6: Pakistan 15/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 6*)
OVER 6: Pakistan 15/1 (Azhar 4* Abid 6*)
Broad continues, another ball raps the thigh bad, this time the skipper. He then draws a play and miss, the ball angled in then nipping away. Serious seam movement there! And another play and miss, this time the ball swung more than seamed.
Broad strays a bit too straight, and Azhar clips it away for two. He is off the mark! Azhar then punches him down the ground for another two.
10:22 AMAnderson got Shan Masood (again...)
James Anderson has dismissed Shan Masood on seven occasions in Test cricket, at an average of 4.85 - as this @CricViz graphic shows.
The only person Anderson has dismissed as often in Tests, at a lower average, is Lahiru Thirimanne (4.57). #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/XfgV5Xcvf3
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
10:21 AMOVER 5: Pakistan 11/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 6*)
Anderson got Shan Masood (again...)
James Anderson has dismissed Shan Masood on seven occasions in Test cricket, at an average of 4.85 - as this @CricViz graphic shows.
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
The only person Anderson has dismissed as often in Tests, at a lower average, is Lahiru Thirimanne (4.57). #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/XfgV5Xcvf3
10:21 AMOVER 5: Pakistan 11/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 6*)
OVER 5: Pakistan 11/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 6*)
England have started very well here. Just a shame about the dropped catch.
Anderson overpitches and Abid crunches him through extra-cover for four. Cracking shot.
Three in-swingers in a row from Anderson, the third hits Abid on the thigh pad.
10:18 AMOVER 4: Pakistan 7/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 2*)
OVER 4: Pakistan 7/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 2*)
Broad draws a tentative shot from Abid, who almost plays at it, withdrawing his back at the last moment.
DROPPED CATCH! Abid edges to Sibley in the slips who shells a catch at shoulder height, it went quickly but should have been taken. They pinch a single.
Broad continues full, probing away.
10:14 AMOVER 3: Pakistan 6/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 1*)
OVER 3: Pakistan 6/1 (Azhar 0* Abid 1*)
Anderson starts full to the Pakistan captain, swining it away. His rhythm has been excellent so far this morning.
Azhar gets forward to the next delivery, blocking it back to the bowler.
Here is the Anderson wicket:
DON'T WRITE HIM OFF!
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 13, 2020
Jimmy Anderson strikes early, Shan Masood (1) plumb lbw! Great start for England and Pakistan are 6-1.
📺 Watch #ENGvPAK live 👉 https://t.co/9TeyyGz0d9
📱 Blog 👉 https://t.co/XO9qmNjAOO pic.twitter.com/3QcmcbG2Xf
10:11 AMWICKET! Shan lbw Anderson 1
WICKET! Shan lbw Anderson 1
The second delivery is almost identical, but this time it pitches on middle and nips back. That is plum! Shan Masood is gone.
Who questioned Jimmy Anderson...
FOW: 6/1
10:10 AMOVER 3: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
OVER 3: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
LBW shout to start Anderson's second over. The ball swung back into the pads of the left-hander, looked like it was going down leg - maybe too high.
10:08 AMOVER 2: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
OVER 2: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
Broad will start from the other end. He starts very full to Abid, who is well forward with a solid block.
The second delivery of the over is unplayable. It pitches on off-stump, nipping away and bouncing through at shoulder height from a length. Promising for England. A couple of balls later, Broad nips one back into the thigh pad of Abid. Movement both ways in this over.
10:04 AMOVER 1: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
OVER 1: Pakistan 6/0 (Shan 1* Abid 1*)
Anderson will take the new ball, of course. Shan drops the ball into the offside, pinching a single from the first delivery of the day.
Abid's first ball faced swings away from the right-hander, drawing a play and miss. Abid attempts a leave, but connects with it rather well, securing a single through backward point. He's off the mark!
Four leg byes. The ball clips Shan's pads and just beats Buttler. Eventful first over.
09:59 AMThe players are out onto the pitch!
The players are out onto the pitch!
Here we go. Let's hope this match can live up to Old Trafford!
09:55 AMIt feels like a huge day for Jimmy Anderson
It feels like a huge day for Jimmy Anderson
After retirement rumours and being outshone by Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes this summer, Anderson will be determined to put it right today.
He has not bowled badly at all this summer.
Big morning for James Anderson. Rumours of retirement were swirling, and then quashed, and rightly so. In the first Test, he passed/drew the edge more often than any other England bowler - as shown in this @CricViz graphic. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/p1ilhgYfHA
— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) August 13, 2020
Here is a reminder of what Joe Root said yesterday:
“I think to question Jimmy’s ability and his record, do that at your peril. There’s a reason he’s got so many wickets over such a long period of time. I think we’re going to see the very best of him soon now.
“It would be very silly for us to write Jimmy off. He’s still as dedicated as ever, he’s working very hard at his game and he’s been very good in practice. I don’t think it will be long before he’s got another five-for next to his name.”
Anderson certainly has the backing of the skipper!
09:51 AMHe never lets England down!
8 - @englandcricket have won all 8 Test matches at home when they've selected Sam Curran. Inclusion. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/2M9wBRw4EH
— OptaJim (@OptaJim) August 13, 2020
09:49 AMA word for Fawad Alam
He never lets England down!
8 - @englandcricket have won all 8 Test matches at home when they've selected Sam Curran. Inclusion. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/2M9wBRw4EH
— OptaJim (@OptaJim) August 13, 2020
09:49 AMA word for Fawad Alam
A word for Fawad Alam
Fawad Alam is in for Shadab Khan for Pakistan - his first Test match in 10 years. The 34-year-old averages 56.8 in First Class cricket, and 41.7 from his three Tests a decade ago.
He has played a decent amount of One Day cricket for Pakistan, averaging over 40 from 38 ODIs.
A great story - and probably the right decision from Pakistan to bolster their batting despite Shadab's good performance at Old Trafford.
09:42 AMInteresting selection from England
Interesting selection from England
Leaving out Jofra Archer, or resting him, depending on your view point seems sensible. Personally I would have liked to see Mark Wood replace him, to keep some variety of pace.
But, as Joe Root pointed out, Sam Curran does strengthen England's lower order.
09:36 AMToss and team news
Toss and team news
So...
Pakistan win the toss and bat first.
Zak Crawley in for Ben Stokes, who flew to New Zealand earlier this week because of family reasons, with Sam Curran coming in for Jofra Archer.
Fawad Alam in for Shadab Khan for Pakistan - his first Test match in 10 years!
Fawad playing his first Test match for 10 years. Missed 88 games
— Nick Hoult (@NHoultCricket) August 13, 2020
09:18 AMWeather update
Weather update
It looks like it will be warm and muggy this morning, with some cloud cover. Perfect conditions for some lateral movement.
There could be some rain and thunderstorms this afternoon however.
08:54 PMGood morning, here is a preview of today's action
Good morning, here is a preview of today's action
After a thrilling first Test at Old Trafford, the England-Pakistan series looks set to be fascinating from start to finish.
The home side have taken control of the series, clinching a win after a heroic stand from Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes. But it should not be forgotten that Pakistan dominated much of the first Test. Their young bowling line-up will be better off for a game under their belts.
Although England will be hoping to build on an all in all less than convincing performance, they will have to do so without England's premier player, vice captain Ben Stokes.
Stokes has gone to New Zealand for personal reasons, creating a gap in England's batting and bowling line-up. The man who so often creates England's magic moments is gone for the remainder of the series.
Zak Crawley, who has carried the drinks for the last two games, is expected to come in as Stokes' replacement. There could be some rotation among the seam attack, although Joe Root was categorical that James Anderson will play. Stuart Broad and Woakes have been too good to drop. It is likely Jofra Archer will retain his place too, although Mark Wood or Sam Curran could potentially be brought in to freshen up the attack.
Of Anderson the England captain said:“I think to question Jimmy’s ability and his record, do that at your peril. There’s a reason he’s got so many wickets over such a long period of time. I think we’re going to see the very best of him soon now.
“It would be very silly for us to write Jimmy off. He’s still as dedicated as ever, he’s working very hard at his game and he’s been very good in practice. I don’t think it will be long before he’s got another five-for next to his name.”
No pressure then, Jimmy.
As for Pakistan, it is likely they will retain their same XI - although they could strengthen their batting with the addition of Fawad Alam or Imam-ul-Haq. They could also opt for another seam bowling option, perhaps Faheem Ashraf for Shadab Khan. However, that seems unlikely given the showing of the young all-rounder at Old Trafford.
After a superb first clash between these sides, roll on 11am!