England reached 453 in their first innings to secure a massive 320-run advantage, while Pakistan lost two early wickets in their second innings.

England tightened their hold over Pakistan on the second day of the third Test in Birmingham after posting 453 runs in their first innings. The imposing total gave the hosts a substantial 320-run lead after Pakistan were dismissed for only 133 in their opening innings.

England resumed their innings at 156 for four and continued to build a strong position throughout the day. Harry Brook contributed 75 runs, while Jamie Smith added 69 to keep the scoreboard moving. Dan Lawrence also played an important innings of 65 runs, and Olly Robinson completed a valuable half-century with 50.

Jofra Archer remained unbeaten on 32 as England eventually reached 453 before being bowled out. Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the hosts and also conceded 45 extras, further increasing England’s advantage.

Debutant fast bowler Razaullah was the standout performer for Pakistan despite England’s dominant batting display. The young pacer claimed four wickets and provided a major boost to the visitors’ bowling effort on a difficult day. Mohammad Imran and Mohammad Ali picked up two wickets apiece, while Mohammad Abbas took one wicket.

Pakistan’s second innings then got off to another poor start. Both openers were dismissed without adding a run, leaving the visitors in immediate trouble. Saim Ayub returned to the pavilion for a duck, while Abdullah Shafique was also dismissed without scoring.

Pakistan eventually reached 52 for two at the close of play, but still faced a huge deficit. The visitors remained 268 runs behind England with eight wickets in hand, leaving them with a difficult task to avoid an innings defeat.

With England firmly in control, Pakistan will need a significant batting recovery on the following day. The visitors must first erase the massive deficit before they can begin thinking about setting England a target or saving the match.