ENG vs PAK: 3rd Test – Talking points from the second day’s play

Zak Crawley and Jos Buttler continued their domination from the opening day of the third Test as they staged a mammoth partnership at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton. Crawley (267) and Buttler (152), both went on to register their highest individual score in Test cricket as Pakistani bowlers tried their heart out to break the 359-run partnership. England eventually declared on 583/8 and allowed their bowlers to gain an upper hand. James Anderson dismissed both the openers and Babar Azam to leave Pakistan on 24/3 at the end of the day’s play.

Crawley continues punishment

After completing his maiden Test century on the first day, the 22-year old batsman was keen on making the most of this opportunity. He continued to bat in the same manner despite the rain delay. Crawley went on to register his maiden double century and kept grinding the Pakistani bowling attack. Taking an adventurous route, he brought his 250 with a six. Eventually, fatigue got to him. He was stumped off the bowling of the part-time bowler Asad Shafique for a bumper score of 267.

What an incredible shot to bring up your 250!

Scorecard & Videos: https://t.co/LRqaHiQ2KG pic.twitter.com/SOIbi5DEy1

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 22, 2020

Buttler registers his best

Continuing from his inspirational comeback after facing criticism for his batting in the first few Tests, Buttler too registered his Test century. However, there was a twist in him getting there. The wicketkeeper was given out on 99 but he quickly reviewed the decision. After earning a not out, Buttler brought up his century on the very next ball. He went on to notch up his highest Test score and also his highest first-class score. Along with Crawley, he added 359 runs for the fifth wicket – highest against Pakistan in Test cricket.

150 for @josbuttler ?

See all the best bits from his innings: https://t.co/kY6fjqi3bF pic.twitter.com/9skSxpfR2a

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 22, 2020

Delayed declaration sees bowlers freeing their hands

With Captain Joe Root allowing the lower order to bat as much as they wanted, the bowlers made the full use of the opportunity. Chris Woakes, who had to wait long for striding out in the middle, added 40 off just 54 balls. Dom Bess scored 27 off 30 balls while Broad entertained in his 15 off 18 balls which included two sixes. Root eventually declared after Broad’s dismissal.