England reached 177/7 to take a 357-run lead, with rain and bad light restricting Day 3 to just 24.5 overs.

England strengthened their position against Pakistan on Day 3 of the second Test at Lord’s as persistent rain and poor light severely restricted play in London. Only 24.5 overs were completed during the day, leaving the hosts with a commanding 357-run advantage at the end of play.

England resumed their innings at 81/3 and remained in control despite losing four wickets during the limited action. The first session was completely washed out, delaying the start until the afternoon as both teams waited for an improvement in the weather.

Pakistan made an immediate impact when Mohammad Abbas produced an excellent delivery to dismiss Emilio Gay lbw. The breakthrough gave the visitors renewed hope as they attempted to reduce England’s advantage.

Dan Lawrence then joined Harry Brook at the crease, and the pair added 45 valuable runs. Their partnership was eventually interrupted by another spell of rain, further reducing the amount of cricket possible at the iconic London venue.

Abbas struck again after play resumed, removing Brook and giving Pakistan another important wicket. Lawrence, however, continued to attack and kept England’s scoring moving despite losing partners at the opposite end.

Jamie Smith was the next batter to depart, while Gus Atkinson joined Lawrence as England looked to rebuild their innings. The hosts reached 162/6 by the tea interval, maintaining their strong position in the Test.

Pakistan continued to make progress after the break, with Mohammad Ali dismissing Atkinson early in the evening session. Lawrence remained composed and completed a valuable half-century, helping England push their lead further.

With England at 177/7, rain and deteriorating light once again brought the action to a halt. No further play was possible, resulting in an early close to Day 3.

England will now aim to add more runs on Day 4 if conditions allow, while Pakistan face the difficult task of taking the remaining three wickets quickly and chasing a substantial target.