LONDON: Pakistan captain Babar Azam admitted that his side was not up to the mark in the second Test against England at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Sunday.
England handed Pakistan a crushing 194-run defeat to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This was also Pakistan’s first defeat at Lord’s in 16 years.
Pakistan were bowled out again for a mere 194 in 50.5 overs as Saud Shakeel resisted with 97 off 122, including 13 fours and two sixes. Ollie Robinson starred for England and picked up four wickets.
Pakistan did well after winning the toss, bowling England out for 291. However, their batting could not rise to the occasion, and were skittled for 110 in the second innings. England capitalized on a shambolic display from Pakistan and built a massive lead, taking the game away from them.
Mohammad Abbas was the notable performer for the touring side and bagged a five-wicket haul. As a result, the visitors were set 389 to win on day four.
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Speaking after the match, Babar admitted that Pakistan had not batted well and praised Saud Shakeel for his grit and fighting display.
“I think we won the toss and bowled first and we tried to utilise the conditions. Then, the batting was not up to the mark. Second innings again, bowling… Abbas was outstanding. Batting again collapsed. I think Saud played, showed class and determination,” Babar said.
He lamented the inability to forge partnerships, saying that the team was trying to do well in bowling and batting.
“We just followed our plans and tried to build partnerships, but unfortunately, we didn’t have partnerships. I think a Lord’s five-for is a memorable moment for Abbas. To be honest, we’re trying to do our best with both batting and bowling,” he added.
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