England Edge Pakistan Thanks To Jimmy Anderson
Despite losing the toss and being asked to field, England edged Pakistan on day one and James ‘Jimmy’ Anderson, in particular, had the better of a rain-affected first day at the Ageas Bowl. In fact, all the bowlers had a day out.
Prior to the toss, England confirmed two changes to their side from the first Test an Old Trafford. Ben Stokes who has gone to be with his family was replaced by Zak Crawley. Jofra Archer was also left out in favour of Sam Curran.
Anderson, who had received criticism in between Tests following his below-par performance in the first Test victory, claimed the first two wickets to fall. Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran then all picked up one each as Pakistan closed on 126-5 with only 45.4 overs possible.
With heavy storms in the area, at times the ground staff and the umpires were wary about staying on. Eventually, rightfully taking the players off prior to heavy rain.
A Premature End
The play was eventually brought to a premature close for the day thanks to deteriorating light. Earlier in the day opener, Abid Ali had shown stout resistance to some impressive bowling from the home side. Ali was eventually caught in slip by Rory Burns, who had dropped two already in the day.
Worryingly for England captain Joe Root’s men, is the presence of Pakistan’s main threat, Babar Azam. The dangerous Pakistan number four 25 not out overnight and looking in ominous touch. He may have to do it all himself tomorrow as he is left somewhat stranded with the tail.
England managed to get the better of Pakistan on day one thanks to Jimmy Anderson but will have to regroup and go again. The hosts will be hoping to bowl Pakistan out as soon as possible.
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Azam will resume in the morning alongside wicket keeper and last of the recognised batsmen Mohammad Rizwan with the score at 126-5.
The visitors will want to add at least another 100 to their first innings total to give them a strong foothold in the match. Especially having won the toss and opted for first use, on what looks a pleasant wicket for batting.
For Root, he will be over the moon with his bowler’s efforts on day one. He will be hopeful of bundling the visitors out for under the 200 mark. This should give his side an opportunity of gaining a substantial first-innings lead. Then, Root himself can focus on his batting. Despite being a difficult pitch, Joe Root should relish the chance to make a big score here. This would ultimately set up a series win.
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