Pakistan endured a 194-run loss to England at Lord’s, a result that gave the home side an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Their campaign was dealt an early blow on the opening day when opener Imam-ul-Haq suffered a left calf injury, ruling him out of batting in both innings.

Pakistan’s first-innings batting effort was particularly disappointing as they were bundled out for just 110, with Ollie Robinson leading England’s attack and helping the hosts secure a substantial 180-run advantage. Pakistan’s bowlers later mounted a strong response, spearheaded by Mohammad Abbas, who finished with figures of 5/57 and claimed nine wickets across the match as England were dismissed for 208 in their second innings.

However, the visitors were unable to chase down the challenging 389-run target. Pakistan eventually folded for 194, with Saud Shakeel providing the strongest resistance. The left-hander fought valiantly for his 97 but narrowly missed out on a well-deserved century as England completed a convincing victory. Following the loss, Pakistan captain Babar Azam shared his take and revealed key reason behind his side’s defeat.

Babar Azam opens up on reasons behind Pakistan’s defeat in Lord’s Test

Speaking during the post-match presentation, Babar acknowledged that Pakistan had started with the right intentions after winning the toss and choosing to bowl first. However, the visitors failed to make the most of their opportunities once they took guard with the bat. The Pakistan skipper explained that the team attempted to stick to its plans and establish partnerships, but those efforts never developed into substantial stands. Babar singled out Shakeel for praise, saying the left-hander showed ‘class and determination’ under enormous pressure.

“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,” said Babar.

Pakistan’s bowlers did their best to keep the team alive in the contest, with Mohammad Abbas delivering a memorable performance. The experienced pacer claimed 5/57 from 22 overs, registering his eighth five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Babar praised Abbas for making the most of the conditions and described his achievement at Lord’s as a special moment.

“We just followed our plans and tried to build partnership, 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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Pakistan eye strong finish at Edgbaston

Pakistan will need a major turnaround to restore some pride and prevent England from completing a 3-0 series sweep when the final Test begins at Edgbaston on September 9, 2026. With the series already beyond their reach, the visitors are expected to make significant changes in an attempt to revive their fortunes.

The team management has reportedly brought in Mike Hesson to oversee the side for the final Test, while out-of-form Mohammad Rizwan is set to return home along with the injured Imam-ul-Haq. The changes underline the urgency within the Pakistan camp after two disappointing performances.

Babar Azam and his fellow batters will also need to find answers to their struggles against Ollie Robinson, who has repeatedly troubled Pakistan’s top order and taken 16 wickets across the first two Tests. Addressing those technical shortcomings will be crucial if Pakistan are to compete effectively in Birmingham. Although the series result is already decided, the final Test remains important for Pakistan. A strong performance could help them earn valuable ICC World Test Championship points, while also providing some much-needed stability after a turbulent tour.

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