England lead series 1-0 ahead of second Test at Lord's

England will take on Pakistan in the second Test of their three-match series at Lord's Cricket Ground in London, with play scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 27, 2026. The hosts hold a 1-0 lead after a dominant innings-and-103-run victory in the first Test at Headingley, completed inside three days. A win at Lord's would secure the series for England, while Pakistan must win to keep the contest alive and bolster their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final. The first Test was a comprehensive display from England, who bowled Pakistan out twice in less than 86 overs. Pace bowlers Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue each claimed eight wickets in the match, with Robinson taking five in the first innings. England's batting was anchored by four half-centuries, including Harry Brook's 91 off 93 balls. Pakistan's batting struggled throughout, with Abdullah Shafique top-scoring with 61 in the first innings. Pakistan's preparations for the crucial second Test have been boosted by the expected return of captain Babar Azam, who missed the Headingley defeat due to a finger injury sustained during a practice match.