England vs Pakistan 3rd Test: England Take Control as Pakistan Collapse Again

The third and final Test between England and Pakistan at Edgbaston has begun with England once again establishing a strong position.

With England already leading the three-match series 2–0, Pakistan needed a major response in the final Test. Instead, their batting problems continued as they were bowled out for just 133 on the opening day.

England finished the day at 156/4, taking a 23-run first-innings lead and putting themselves firmly in control of the Test.

Pakistan Collapse for 133

Pakistan's batting struggled against England's pace attack from the beginning.

Josh Tongue was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for 42 runs. Ollie Robinson added 3/15, while Jofra Archer claimed 3/25.

Pakistan lost four wickets for just 26 runs during the early stages of their innings, leaving the visitors under immediate pressure.

Saud Shakeel provided some resistance with 43, but Pakistan's lower order could not build a competitive total.

The innings ended at 133 after only 33.5 overs.

Ollie Robinson Reaches 100 Test Wickets

The opening day was also significant for Ollie Robinson, who reached the milestone of 100 Test wickets.

His spell of 3/15 played an important role in England's dominant bowling performance and highlighted the effectiveness of England's seam attack in the conditions at Edgbaston.

Razaullah Provides Pakistan With a Positive

Despite Pakistan's disappointing batting performance, there was one encouraging development.

21-year-old debutant Razaullah impressed with his pace and movement. He claimed the important wicket of Joe Root with only his fourth delivery in Test cricket.

He later dismissed Emilio Gay, finishing the day with 2 wickets.

For a Pakistan side going through a difficult period, Razaullah's performance could be one of the few positives to take from the opening day.

England Recover After Early Wickets

England did not have everything their own way.

Pakistan's bowlers removed Ben Duckett, Jordan Cox and Joe Root before England had established control.

However, Emilio Gay and Harry Brook changed the momentum with an important partnership.

Gay scored 60, his highest Test score, while Brook remained unbeaten on 52 at the close of play.

Their partnership helped England move from 39/3 to a position where they finished the day ahead of Pakistan.

Pakistan Facing Another Major Challenge

Pakistan's struggles have become the defining feature of this Test series.

They have now failed to reach 200 in each of the three Tests, while England have consistently found ways to put pressure on their batting lineup.

The situation became even more difficult before the third Test, with Pakistan making major changes to their squad and bringing in several new players.

The final Test therefore represents more than just an opportunity to avoid a clean sweep. It is also a chance for Pakistan's new-look group to show that they can compete at Test level.

What to Watch on Day 2

England will begin Day 2 at 156/4 with a 23-run lead.

Harry Brook's unbeaten 52 puts England in a strong position, but Pakistan still have an opportunity if they can take early wickets.

For England, the objective will be simple: build a substantial first-innings lead and put Pakistan under pressure once again.

For Pakistan, dismissing Brook and the remaining England batters early could be the beginning of a comeback.

Sportspredictor Analysis

England have once again demonstrated the difference between the two sides in this series.

Their pace attack has been consistent, aggressive and capable of exploiting helpful conditions. Pakistan, meanwhile, continue to struggle with their top-order batting.

The emergence of Razaullah is a positive sign, but Pakistan need a collective response rather than individual moments of brilliance.

With England already 2–0 ahead, the hosts are now in an excellent position to complete a 3–0 series whitewash.

The second day could therefore prove decisive in determining whether Pakistan can make this final Test competitive or whether England will continue their dominance.

Sportspredictor | Author: Anirudh Gaur
Sports Management & Operations