Robinson takes wicket off first ball as Root begins second England captaincy

Joe Root's second spell as England Test captain began with immediate reward as seamer Ollie Robinson dismissed Pakistan opener Azan Awais lbw to the first ball of the series on a rain-interrupted opening day at Headingley on Wednesday. Robinson's incisive opening spell reduced Pakistan to 62 for 2 before heavy rain forced an early lunch, with play resuming after a near two-hour delay.

Root, who won the toss and elected to bowl in overcast conditions, saw Robinson trap the fit-again Shan Masood lbw for 5 to leave Pakistan struggling. The wicket to the very first delivery was a historic moment, marking the first time a wicket has fallen to the opening ball of a Test series in England. Pakistan eventually finished the delayed first session on 232, with Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique at the crease when rain intervened. The early proceedings highlighted the thoroughness of England's preparation for their new era, which follows the departure of former captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum.

Root's return to the helm comes after a turbulent period that saw England win just two of their last 10 Tests. Speaking ahead of the match, the 35-year-old captain emphasized...