England post 409‑8 to lead Pakistan by 238 runs in Headingley Test

England’s massive first‑innings total gave them a 238‑run lead over Pakistan, putting the visitors on the back foot ahead of the second Test at Lord’s.

England piled up 409 for eight at Headingley on Friday, establishing a 238‑run first‑innings lead over Pakistan. The hosts bowled out the visitors for 135 in their second innings, sealing a comprehensive victory with more than two days still to play.

The home side’s batting line‑up produced four half‑centuries but no hundreds. Harry Brook top‑scored with 91, while Jordan Cox made 73, Joe Root added 66 and the recalled Dan Lawrence contributed 51. Their partnership built a solid platform that left the opposition with a steep hill to climb.

Pakistan’s reply never gathered momentum. After a brief resistance of 61 from Abdullah Shafique in the first innings, they were skittled for 135 in the second. Fast bowler Josh Tongue and his teammate Ollie Robinson shared the wickets, finishing with figures of 8‑89 and 8‑80 respectively. Jofra Archer provided early fireworks, dismissing both openers with a quick spell.

The left‑arm spinner Ali Usman claimed a maiden five‑wicket haul (5‑95), the only bright spot for the tourists. Imam‑ul‑Haq fell for a duck to Archer, while Azan Awais was caught behind by the wicket‑keeper after a mis‑timed shot.

With the series level at 0‑0, the second Test at Lord’s begins on Thursday. Pakistan, who have not won a red‑ball series in England for three decades, will need a dramatic turnaround. England, meanwhile, will aim to consolidate the lead and give new captain Joe Root a strong start to his second stint at the helm.