England resume their second innings on 162-6, holding a commanding 342-run lead after a rain-hit Saturday. The hosts had resumed Day 3 at 81-3 and added 81 runs before tea, with Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas providing the visitors a much-needed spark with three wickets.
Dan Lawrence, who battled through the difficult conditions to reach a gritty half-century, remains unbeaten and will be crucial to England’s plans. With Gus Atkinson alongside him, England will look to add quick runs on Sunday before declaring or being bowled out and putting Pakistan under pressure.
Pakistan, meanwhile, face a monumental task. They were dismissed for just 110 in the first innings and are effectively down to 10 batters after Imam-ul-Haq was ruled out of the remainder of the match with a calf injury. Abbas has offered encouragement with the ball, but Pakistan need another inspired spell from their attack to prevent England from setting an unassailable target.
England won the opening Test at Headingley by an innings and are now within touching distance of sealing the three-match series. With improved weather expected, the home side will be keen to make the most of the conditions, accelerate their scoring and give themselves ample time to bowl Pakistan out for a second time.
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