Dan Lawrence fifty strengthens England’s grip over Pakistan in rain-hit Lord’s Test

Dan Lawrence produced a composed unbeaten half-century to strengthen England’s grip on the second Test against Pakistan at Lord’s, as rain and fading light once again disrupted proceedings on Saturday.

England ended the third day at 177/7, stretching their overall lead to 357 runs. Lawrence remained unbeaten on 50, while Ollie Robinson was two not out when bad light brought an early conclusion to the day.

Only 2.2 overs were possible in the final session. England added just 15 runs during that brief period, losing Gus Atkinson for seven after Mohammad Ali trapped the all-rounder lbw.

How did Pakistan strike after the rain delay?

Persistent rain completely washed out the morning session, meaning England could only resume their second innings after lunch. They began at 81/3, already holding a commanding 261-run lead.

Pakistan quickly made their presence felt. Mohammad Abbas removed Emilio Gay in the second over, deceiving the left-hander with a delivery that stayed unusually low. Gay departed in discomfort after making 31 from 74 balls.

Harry Brook then joined Lawrence, and the pair showed considerable resolve in testing bowling conditions. Their 45-run fifth-wicket stand offered England valuable momentum before Abbas struck again, having Brook caught behind by Mohammad Rizwan. Brook scored a lively 34 from 56 balls, including five boundaries.

Who has led Pakistan’s bowling attack?

Lawrence continued to hold England’s innings together, adding 21 with Jamie Smith before the wicketkeeper-batter fell for seven, again to Abbas. At 149/6, England’s advantage remained substantial.

Atkinson joined Lawrence and added 13 before another rain interruption cut the session short.

Abbas has been Pakistan’s standout bowler, claiming 3/48 from 18 overs. Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali have taken two wickets each, but England still enter the fourth day firmly in command.