England vs Pakistan: Bowlers crush tourists before running for Emilio Gay and Harry Brooke

Third Test Rothesay, Edgbaston (day one of five)

Pakistan 133: Shakil 43; Language 4–42, Robinson 3–15, Archer 3–25.

England 156-4: Gay 60, Brook 52*

England are 23 points ahead

Scorecard

England once again crushed Pakistan’s dismal performance to cruise to a clean 3-0 victory on the opening day of the third Test at Edgbaston.

Having snatched just 133 runs from the tourists, England already have a 23-run lead at 156-4.

After a week of turmoil that saw Pakistan send home seven players, call up seven more and change coaches, the result was much the same as in the first two Tests.

Although the dry pitch seemed suitable for batting, gloomy morning skies convinced England captain Joe Root to field first and his new pace attack was again outstanding.

Pakistan failed to reach 200 for the fifth time in a row, while none of the top five players reached double figures. Saud Shakeel made at least 43 balls, and the top-order ineptitude was put into context by the last-wicket pair of Muhammad Abbas and Mohammed Ali, who added 26 off 46 balls – the best partnership of the entire innings.

Josh Tong bowled a quick 4-42, Ollie Robinson passed 100 Test wickets with 3-15 and Jofra Archer took the remaining three scalps.

In truth, it was a disappointing and depressing display, but Pakistan showed some fight with the ball, not least when speedy debutant Razaullah lbwed Root to leave England 39-3.

Emilio Gay and Harry Brooke stabilized the England team, each scoring 104 half-centuries to give the hosts the lead.

Gay dragged Razaullah away. His gritty 60 was impressive, although perhaps not enough to provide confidence in his place in a loaded England squad.