Dropped catches cost England

Pakistan patiently took a firm grip on the first Test against England on the second day at Lord’s.

Babar Azam, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq and Shadab Khan made half-centuries to help the tourists to 3508, a lead of 166.

They gave England, who were bowled out for 184 on day one, a lesson in the discipline, diligence and control required to make runs in Test cricket.

In improved batting conditions, England’s bowling was adequate, but lacking the penetration demonstrated by Pakistan on Thursday, perhaps leaving captain Joe Root rueing his decision to bat first.

The home side also did not help themselves by dropping three catches and missing another, to go with a Ben Stokes drop from the first evening.

Stokes at least brought much-needed venom to the home attack, taking three wickets and striking a blow to Babar’s wrist that caused the batsman to retire hurt on 68.

It may be that Pakistan already have a match-winning lead, while England’s hopes rest on a rapid conclusion of the innings followed by a vastly improved display with the bat.

In truth, though, they need to pull off a remarkable fightback to avoid an eighth consecutive Test without a win.

If England’s 13-match winless streak away from home can partly be put down to not having the tools for unfamiliar conditions, being so outplayed for two days at Lord’s by Pakistan is a huge concern.

Collectively, Pakistan have had greater preparation for this match and it has shone through with bat, ball and in the field.

England may point to Pakistan having more favourable conditions in which to bowl – that was England’s choice, though – but the home side have no excuse for the way they have been outfought with the bat.