England’s pace bowlers delivered a dominant performance against Pakistan on the second day of the second Test at Lord’s, reducing the visitors to 110 all out and securing a commanding first-innings lead of 180 runs. The result further underlined England’s control of the three-match series, which they lead 1-0 following a comprehensive victory in the first Test at Headingley.

Pakistan’s innings was decimated in just 37.2 overs by England’s four-pronged fast bowling attack comprising Jofra Archer, Ollie Robinson, Josh Tongue, and Gus Atkinson. None of Pakistan’s batsmen managed significant resistance, with opener Imam-ul-Haq absent due to a calf injury and the bulk of the runs owed to Azan Awais, who scored a gritty 46 after being dropped early on. Awais survived numerous deliveries from Archer, often narrowly avoiding dismissal, but was the only notable resistance to England’s relentless bowling.

Archer led the pace threat with a career-best five-over spell at an average speed exceeding 90 mph, claiming key wickets including that of Shan Masood. Robinson’s spell was economical and destructive, returning figures of 4 for 11 from 13 overs and further strengthening his comeback campaign, where he has taken 19 wickets at an economy rate below 3. Josh Tongue contributed with two crucial wickets, including that of Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who was caught at third slip after edging a ball that straightened late. Atkinson, maintaining his speed, supported effectively with steady pressure on the batsmen.

England’s bowling effort was praised as their most compelling since their strong showing in Perth in November, highlighting the potential of a pace battery that could pave the way for reclaiming the Ashes next summer. The performance was particularly notable given concerns over England’s spinner options and the ongoing absence of experienced fast bowlers due to injury. Archer, having returned from a four-and-a-half-year injury hiatus, has justified the faith placed in him with his form this summer, while Robinson’s disciplined accuracy has troubled batsmen consistently.

Despite England’s dominance on the field, some commentators expressed concern about the competitive balance of the match and the broader state of Test cricket. The one-sided nature of the encounter and similar results throughout the summer have raised questions about the viability and appeal of the format when facing teams struggling with internal and financial difficulties. Pakistan’s cricket board has faced challenges off the field, and the economic disparity within international cricket—driven largely by the financial dominance of the so-called “Big Three” nations England, Australia, and India—has exacerbated competitive imbalances. These countries receive a majority share of the International Cricket Council’s revenue and lucrative broadcast deals, allowing them to offer player contracts that smaller boards cannot match.

This economic divide affects the ability of teams like Pakistan and others outside the top tier to retain their best talent or host financially sustainable Test matches, at times prompting players to favour franchise leagues. Given these dynamics, some analysts warn of more uneven contests ahead unless reforms in revenue sharing and international scheduling are considered.

At the close of day two, England began their second innings at 81 for three, firmly positioned to secure a series-clinching victory ahead of the third and final Test at Edgbaston starting on September 9.