United Kingdom: Harry Brook struck a crucial 91 as England strengthened their position against Pakistan on a rain-shortened second day of the first Test at Headingley.
England reached 366-8, giving the hosts a 195-run lead after making the most of limited playing time in Leeds. Brook’s innings was particularly important after the vice-captain was dropped on one, allowing the batter to make Pakistan pay for the missed opportunity.
Brook shared a 120-run partnership with Dan Lawrence, who marked a return to the Test side with a half-century. The partnership helped England maintain control after Pakistan had created opportunities with the ball.
From the boundary edge 📽️
Our batters brightening up a gloomy day! 🌥️ 👏 pic.twitter.com/ouVTWdnmuI
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 20, 2026
Earlier, Joe Root and Jordan Cox appeared on course for centuries after putting together a 150-run third-wicket partnership. Cox was eventually dismissed for 73 after edging a delivery from left-arm spinner Ali Usman through to the wicketkeeper. Root followed four balls later, playing across the line against Khurram Shahzad and being trapped lbw for 66. The dismissal ended Root’s hopes of marking his return to the captaincy with a century.
Brook then continued England’s progress with a composed 91, ensuring the hosts extended their advantage despite the difficult batting conditions in Leeds. The innings further underlined Brook’s importance to England’s new era under captain Joe Root.
Morning rain delayed the start of play until 2:45pm BST, leaving Pakistan with limited time to exploit the damp conditions and floodlights. Instead, England used the available overs to build an increasingly commanding position. The result leaves Pakistan facing the possibility of defeat inside three days. England will now look to complete the remaining work quickly, while Pakistan must produce a major turnaround with both bat and ball to keep the first Test alive.
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