England lead Pakistan by 261 as Lord's day three hit by rain
England resume day three of the second Test against Pakistan at Lord's on 81-3, leading by 261 runs, but play was repeatedly delayed by rain on Saturday 29 August 2026. Umpires set a revised 14:15 BST start with extended sessions, yet covers went on and off as drizzle returned across North London. The england pakistan contest remains firmly in England's hands despite the weather.
Key Takeaways
- England are 81-3 in their second innings with a 261-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 110.
- Day three was officially delayed; inspectors targeted a 14:15 start with tea at 16:40 and close at 19:00.
- Covers were removed and replaced multiple times as light rain interrupted warm-ups at Lord's.
- Harry Brook and Emilio Gay were at the crease when play was last possible; Joe Root fell lbw to Mohammad Ali.
- England can still clinch their first series win in 18 months if they press their advantage after the rain.
What is the score in the England vs Pakistan second Test?
At the start of day three, England held a commanding position. Pakistan made 110 in their first innings, while England replied with 290 before reaching 81-3 in their second knock. That left Joe Root's side 261 runs ahead with seven wickets in hand, according to BBC Sport's live coverage.
Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer shared seven of Pakistan's nine first-innings wickets. Emilio Gay was unbeaten on 30 and Harry Brook on seven when stumps arrived on day two. Pakistan's Imam-ul-Haq did not bat due to a calf strain.
Why was day three at Lord's delayed by rain?
Steady drizzle across West London kept the outfield under covers for much of Saturday morning. The ECB announced an official delay, with a pitch inspection scheduled for 13:15 BST if conditions improved.
Groundstaff repeatedly rolled covers on and off as brief dry spells offered hope. The Guardian's live blog described the scene as covers being peeled away before rain forced them back on. Forecasts suggested only a narrow afternoon window for play.
When will play resume and how can you follow live?
Officials set a 14:15 BST restart, with the first session running until 16:40, a 20-minute tea break, and an evening session from 17:00 to 19:00. Organisers aimed for up to 67 overs if the weather held. Cricinfo reported further slips to 14:20 as grey skies lingered over St John's Wood.
Fans can follow ball-by-ball updates on ESPNcricinfo and listen to Test Match Special on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra. BBC Sport also posted video highlights from England's dominant second day.
What does day three mean for the series?
England entered the weekend needing to convert a huge lead into a series-clinching victory. Michael Vaughan told TMS that Pakistan's batting had been poor, but stressed England could "only beat what's in front of you" and were dominating the contest.
With one Test still to play in Birmingham, Root may extend the innings to build a target beyond Pakistan's reach. For more trending sports and market coverage, browse our Fintech & Crypto Alerts hub.