England take early lead in third Test against Pakistan, rain halts play

England’s batting display on day two of the third Test at Lahore was a collective effort, with Harry Brook, Dan Lawrence, Jamie Smith and Ollie Robinson each reaching the half‑century mark. The four batsmen contributed a steady stream of runs that helped England maintain a lead, while the Pakistani bowlers struggled to contain the England side. The innings was interrupted only by a brief rain break, after which play resumed under a clear sky.

Despite the rain, England’s chase was built on a solid foundation, with Brook’s 58, Lawrence’s 56, Smith’s 53 and Robinson’s 52 all adding to a total that left Pakistan trailing by 268 runs. The Pakistani bowlers were unable to produce the breakthroughs needed to stem the England onslaught, and the weather interruption offered no respite for the visitors, who were already in a difficult position.

With England holding a substantial advantage, the focus now shifts to the remaining days of the Test. Pakistan will need to regroup and mount a strong reply, while England will look to consolidate their lead and secure a win in the final day of the match.