Pakistan face an uphill battle in the third Test after England took a commanding first-innings lead before rain ended play early on Day 2.

Pakistan are facing a difficult situation in the third Test against England at Edgbaston, trailing by 268 runs with eight wickets remaining in their second innings. Persistent rain brought an early end to the second day, leaving Pakistan with a major challenge ahead of the resumption on September 11.

England resumed Day 2 at 156/4 and continued to dominate with the bat. The hosts eventually reached 453, securing a substantial 320-run first-innings advantage and putting Pakistan under significant pressure.

Harry Brook continued his impressive contribution after starting the day unbeaten on 52. The England batter moved to 75 from 97 deliveries before being run out following a sharp piece of fielding involving Shan Masood and Saim Ayub.

Dan Lawrence and Jamie Smith also played important roles in extending England’s lead. Lawrence contributed a solid 65, while Smith scored a quick 69 to keep the scoreboard moving. Ollie Robinson then added a useful half-century, while Jofra Archer’s aggressive 32 helped England push their advantage beyond the 300-run mark.

For Pakistan, Razaullah was the leading wicket-taker, finishing with figures of 4/148. Mohammad Imran claimed 2/47, while Mohammad Ali took 2/92 as England’s lower order continued to frustrate the visitors.

Pakistan’s second innings began disastrously. Saim Ayub was dismissed by Ollie Robinson from the very first delivery, before Abdullah Shafique also fell to the same bowler shortly afterwards.

With Pakistan reduced to 52/2, Azan Awais and Shan Masood attempted to steady the innings through different approaches. Awais looked to play positively and use his strokes, while Masood focused on occupying the crease and building a partnership.

However, continuous rain prevented any further play, leaving Pakistan 268 runs behind with eight wickets in hand.

England, who entered the match looking to strengthen their position in the ICC World Test Championship, remain firmly in control. Pakistan, meanwhile, need a substantial recovery to avoid losing all three Tests on the tour.

Play in the third Test is scheduled to resume on September 11.