England are poised to seal a 3-0 series whitewash against Pakistan after a dominant second day at Edgbaston, characterized by Ollie Robinson’s immediate impact and a batting display that saw Ben Brook, Harry Brook, and Shoaib Bashir fall just short of centuries.
Robinson made an instant statement upon resuming play, claiming two wickets in his very first over. This aggressive start mirrored the momentum established by England on day one, effectively extinguishing Pakistan’s hopes after their earlier collapse.
The match is now firmly in England’s control. Joe Root’s side requires eight wickets to secure victory, while Pakistan, who will resume on 52 for two, still need 268 runs to avoid being bowled out again.
Although Friday served as the only sold-out day of the third Test, it remains uncertain whether the crowd will remain large enough for the weekend sessions. Regardless of attendance, the outcome appears increasingly inevitable, with England’s ruthless efficiency ensuring the contest is likely decided before the final day concludes.
Does anyone else think these early wickets are masking a pitch that will eventually aid the batters? Just a hunch.
I expected more resistance from the middle order. Twenty-six eight runs shouldn’t be this daunting on a flat track.
England’s bowling attack looks absolutely ruthless this series. Pakistan never had a chance against Robinson’s pace.