England all out for 290 as last-wicket pair frustrate Pakistan in second Test

England's tailenders frustrated Pakistan on the second day of the second Test at Lord's, adding a crucial 47 runs for the last wicket to help the hosts reach 290 all out in their first innings. No. 11 batter Josh Tongue remained unbeaten on 30, his Test best, while Gus Atkinson, who has a Test century at the venue, was out for 45.

Mohammad Abbas led Pakistan's attack, finishing with figures of 4-73 in 20 overs. England had been in a precarious position at 36-3 on Thursday, with Abbas taking three wickets in quick succession after Pakistan won the toss. However, fifties from Jamie Smith (61) and Jordan Cox (55) helped England recover before bad light ended play on day one.

The match resumed Friday under sunny skies, with Atkinson and Tongue at the crease. Tongue, showing resilience beyond his tailender status, scored boundaries off Mohammad Ali and Abbas. Pakistan introduced spinner Ali Usman in an attempt to break the stubborn partnership, but Atkinson was eventually caught after a brisk 46-ball innings.

Tongue's unbeaten 30, compiled off 48 balls, surpassed his previous Test high score. These runs proved valuable given England's dominant performance in the first Test, which they won by an innings and 103 runs. Pakistan, however, was bolstered by the return of captain Babar Azam from injury, though opener Imam-ul-Haq remained off the field due to a calf strain.