Pakistan set unwanted records against England during the third and final Test at Edgbaston. The match capped a difficult away series for the visitors, who had already lost the first two matches.
Also, England’s pace attack pressured Pakistan from the very start. Josh Tongue, Jofra Archer and Ollie Robinson bowled with real intensity throughout the innings. Pakistan collapsed for just 133 runs in 33.5 overs.
Meanwhile, England seized control of the contest almost immediately. The hosts built a dominant batting performance featuring five half-centuries. Emilio Gay, Harry Brook, Dan Lawrence, Jamie Smith and Robinson all reached the milestone. Eventually, England posted 453 all out in 89 overs, securing a massive lead.
That lead reached 320 runs, marking one of England’s biggest advantages over Pakistan in Test history. Indeed, it stands as England’s fifth-highest first-innings lead against Pakistan. However, the record lead remains the 401-run margin set at Trent Bridge back in 1954.
England’s Highest First-Innings Leads Against Pakistan
| Rank | England’s First-Innings Lead | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 401 runs | Trent Bridge | 1954 |
| 2 | 391 runs | Old Trafford | 2016 |
| 3 | 372 runs | Lord’s | 2010 |
| 4 | 342 runs | Old Trafford | 2006 |
| 5 | 320 runs | Edgbaston | 2026* |
Additionally, Ollie Robinson achieved a personal milestone during the innings. Batting at number nine, he became the first England batter at that position or lower to score a half-century against Pakistan since 2010. Stuart Broad had previously achieved the feat with a 169-run innings at Lord’s.
Robinson walked in with England at 331 for 7 and quickly changed the tempo. He attacked the bowling with confidence and reached fifty from just 47 balls. His innings included seven fours and one six, further denting Pakistan’s morale.
Therefore, Pakistan now faces mounting pressure heading into the final days of the match. The team has struggled throughout this series and shows few signs of recovery. Still, the third and final Test at Edgbaston will continue until September 13, giving Pakistan a chance to salvage some pride.
Overall, Pakistan’s unwanted records against England highlight deeper issues in the team’s approach to fast bowling. Furthermore, questions will likely follow the squad regarding their preparation for seaming conditions. Finally, fans will hope for improvement before the next major series begins.
