Advantage England

Advantage England as they doubled down on a good first day and are take a strong first innings lead into day three.

Rain in the sky and the covers out at headingley at the start of day two. Luckily for England the ground staff done a great job getting the game underway by 14:45.

It would begin

The day would begin, England 106-2, nightwatchman Dom Bess and captain Joe Root at the crease. They would go on to get an impressive 49 and 45 respectively, another fantastic performance with the bat from the young Dom Bess. 

The wickets of Bess, Root and Milan fell, however they looked intent on putting their foot down. Given out LBW for eight Bairstow would successfully use his review to have the decision overturned. Bairstow who eventually went for 21, left batting partner Butler to face the new ball with just Englands unrecognised batsman for company.

Chris Woakes would dig in and help Butler reaching 17 runs before he edged behind a beautiful delivery by Abbas.

Sam Curren really impressed as he got his first chance with the bat. He confidently survived the last 7 overs of the day picking up 16 runs in the process.

The Pakistan bowling attack worked hard throughout the day but had very little to work with in terms of swing. 

How it ended 

302-7 – England a lead of 128. Joss Butler 34* Sam Curren 16*

England will likely come out on the start of day three and look to assert dominance. They must win the second test to avoid an embarrassing third consecutive series defeat.

The talk 

Batting coach Graham Thorpe: “We’re pleased with the lead. The game isn’t in the bag, but we have shown some fight, character and application over the past couple of days, which has been pleasing. “We’re pleased with what’s gone on over the last couple of days and we have to push home the advantage.

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