Only 24.3 overs were possible on the rain-hit third day at Lord’s. England lost four wickets and added 86 runs during that brief period, taking their total to 177 for seven at the close of play.
Despite England’s struggles in the second innings, the hosts remain firmly in control of the Test. Pakistan were bowled out for just 110 in their first innings, giving England a commanding 180-run lead.
With three wickets still in hand, England are now 357 runs ahead after three days. Mohammad Ali knows full well that Pakistan’s chances of pulling off a victory are slim.
Speaking at the end of the third day, the pacer, who has taken five wickets in the match so far, admitted that Pakistan will need something extraordinary to win.
“Miracles happen in cricket all the time. At this point, all we can do is hope and encourage our batting group to make something special happen.”
“Obviously, it will be a difficult task, but it’s not impossible. You can’t predict anything in cricket until the final ball is bowled. There are still runs to be scored in this Test. We’ve seen teams chase 350 or 400 before. It’s mainly about belief and mindset. The conditions are very challenging, but we have to embrace that challenge and find a way to score the runs.”
England had found themselves in a similar position to Pakistan during their first innings, reduced to 76 for four at one stage. But they fought their way back to post 290, eventually securing a crucial 180-run lead.
Pakistan’s bowlers, however, did a much better job in the second innings and prevented England from getting away easily. Mohammad Ali was pleased with their response with the ball.
“The deficit from the first innings was huge. When you are that far behind, you have to try to take wickets as quickly as possible. I think in the second innings we bowled consistently in good areas, which is why England are now seven down for 177.”
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