england take 238run
|

England take 238-run oead as Pakistan struggle at Headingley

LEEDS: England strengthened their position in the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on Thursday, reaching 409 runs in their first innings to secure a substantial 238-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 171.

Pakistan’s bowlers managed to break through England’s batting line-up on the third morning, but the home side’s tailenders added valuable runs to push the total beyond the 400-run mark.

England resumed the day on 366-8, with Jofra Archer and the lower order looking to extend their advantage. Archer remained unbeaten on 23, while Jamie Smith contributed 25 before being dismissed. Josh Tong was also removed after scoring eight.

Earlier, England’s top and middle order had laid the foundation for the imposing total.

Harry Brook missed out on a century but made a valuable 91, while Jordan Cox scored 73. Captain Joe Root continued his dependable form with 66, and Dan Lawrence added 51.

The combined efforts of England’s senior batters ensured that Pakistan faced a demanding bowling assignment and left their opponents with a sizeable deficit to overcome.

For Pakistan, Ali Usman emerged as the standout bowler. The spinner claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket, providing a major highlight for the visitors despite England’s strong batting performance.

Khurram Shahzad supported him with three wickets, while Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali took one wicket each.

Pakistan’s first innings had lasted only long enough to produce 171 runs, leaving their bowlers with the difficult task of restricting England and preventing the hosts from building an overwhelming advantage.

England’s ability to extend their innings through the lower order proved particularly costly for Pakistan. Archer’s unbeaten 23 ensured that the hosts crossed the 400 mark, while the additional runs from Smith and Tong further increased the pressure on the visitors.

With England now holding a 238-run lead, Pakistan face a challenging second innings. Their batters will need to produce a vastly improved performance if they are to prevent England from taking control of the Test.

The Headingley contest has already produced a contrasting display from the two sides: England’s batting depth has stood out, while Pakistan’s Ali Usman has provided a significant individual breakthrough with his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

The match remains a stern test of Pakistan’s resilience as they look to recover from their modest first-innings total and keep their hopes alive in the opening Test.

Similar Posts

  • | | | | | |

    Trump orders one-day pause in Iran strikes as talks continue

    US President Donald Trump has reportedly ordered a one-day halt to military strikes against Iran, temporarily interrupting a nearly two-week-long series of attacks, according to reports from US media outlets. The pause comes as uncertainty remains over whether the decision represents a temporary break in operations or the beginning of a broader ceasefire process. Reports suggest that the US military had been preparing for possible further strikes against Iran, but Trump has not yet approved any new major offensive. According to US media reports, military plans for continued operations were presented to the president, but Trump instructed officials not to proceed with attacks on that day. The decision marked a significant shift after a period of repeated strikes targeting Iranian positions. Trump later told reporters that the United States still had the option to continue military action and increase the intensity of attacks if necessary. However, he indicated that pursuing a diplomatic solution could be a more effective strategy. “The smart strategy is to make a deal,” Trump was reported as saying, adding that Iran appeared to be becoming more serious about discussions while the US remained prepared for possible military action. The reported pause came as an Omani delegation arrived in Iran for discussions aimed at addressing regional tensions and negotiating a possible agreement related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Officials suggested that a deal between Iran and Oman could potentially be reached during the weekend, after which the final decision would depend on Washington. Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that Iranian forces had destroyed several US military aircraft and drones during attacks on American bases. The group claimed that 17 drones, an F-15 fighter jet, a P-8 aircraft, a C-17 transport aircraft, and eight refueling planes were destroyed. The claims from both sides have not been independently verified, and officials have continued to provide competing accounts of the military developments. The situation remains highly sensitive as regional tensions continue, with diplomatic efforts taking place alongside military preparations. The coming days are expected to determine whether the temporary pause leads to broader negotiations or whether hostilities resume.

  • | | |

    Court sets August 18 for Rajab Butt indictment

    LAHORE: A sessions court in Lahore has fixed August 18 for the indictment of TikToker Rajab Butt and four other suspects in a case involving allegations of sexual assault against a social media influencer. Additional District and Sessions Judge Zafaryab heard the private complaint filed by the woman against Butt and the other suspects. The court directed all five accused to appear on the next hearing date for formal framing of charges. The complaint was filed in 2025. The woman alleged that she was sexually assaulted and later subjected to blackmail by the suspects. She told the court that she had evidence to support her allegations. The material reportedly includes WhatsApp conversations, a medical report and a statement recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The accused have denied the allegations. They had previously obtained pre-arrest bail from a sessions court while the proceedings continued. The case is separate from another criminal complaint recently registered against Butt and some of his associates. Last month, police registered a case after an alleged confrontation at a café involving several women. The same woman who filed the earlier sexual assault complaint also approached police over the café incident. She alleged that Butt attacked her and other women during the altercation. The latest court proceedings add to the growing number of legal cases involving the social media personality. Butt has faced proceedings over several allegations in recent years. These include accusations related to hurting religious sentiments, promoting online gambling and physical assault. He has denied the allegations in the relevant cases. The court will now hear the matter on August 18. The appearance of Butt and the other suspects will mark the next stage of proceedings, when the court is scheduled to formally frame charges.

  • |

    Shubman Gill injury rocks India ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

    COLOMBO: India’s preparations for their upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka have suffered a fresh setback after captain Shubman Gill was forced to miss the opening day of a three-day warm-up match due to a finger injury. Gill sustained an injury to his right-hand finger during a practice session on Thursday, prompting the Indian team management to take a cautious approach. The Test captain was rested for the first day of the warm-up fixture against a Sri Lanka XI as the medical team continues to monitor his condition. The development immediately raised concerns over Gill’s availability for the Test series, although there is currently no indication that he will miss the opening match. In Gill’s absence, vice-captain KL Rahul took charge of the Indian side. Rahul’s experience will be particularly valuable as India look to make the most of their final preparation ahead of the two-Test series. Recent reports also confirmed that Rahul led India at the toss after Gill was ruled out of the opening day. The Indian camp is already dealing with a lengthy injury list. Star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the Test series with a knee problem, while Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar are also unavailable because of different injuries. Gill’s fitness will therefore be closely watched over the next two days. According to the team’s medical update, a decision on whether he will return to the warm-up match will be made after further assessment. India are scheduled to begin their two-Test series against Sri Lanka on August 15 in Galle, with the second Test set to be played in Colombo from August 23. For India, the priority is clear: avoid taking unnecessary risks with their captain now and ensure Gill is fully fit when the real contest begins. The latest setback adds another layer of uncertainty to an already injury-hit Indian squad, making Gill’s recovery one of the biggest talking points ahead of the series.

  • | | |

    How long will monsoon rains continue in Lahore?

    Lahore: Intermittent monsoon rains continued across Lahore after resuming late Monday night, bringing much-needed relief from intense heat and humidity. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that the wet spell will continue throughout the day, with additional rainfall expected across Lahore and other parts of Punjab over the next 24 hours. According to the Met Office, Lahore’s minimum temperature is expected to remain around 27°C, while the maximum temperature may reach 32°C. Cloudy conditions and intermittent showers are likely to persist, contributing to cooler weather across the city. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert to district administrations across the province, directing officials to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures to minimize the risk of rain-related incidents, urban flooding, and water accumulation. Meanwhile, WASA Lahore has deployed emergency teams to ensure the timely drainage of rainwater from roads and low-lying areas. Managing Director Ghufran Ahmed, along with other officials, is personally monitoring the city’s drainage operations to prevent disruptions caused by heavy rainfall. Rainfall data recorded across Lahore showed varying intensities in different localities. Nishtar Town received the highest rainfall at 42.2 mm, followed by Lahore Airport with 30 mm. Other recorded rainfall included 20.6 mm in Johar Town, 12.6 mm at Upper Mall, 6.8 mm in Kahna, 3.4 mm on Defence Road, and 2.2 mm at the WASA Head Office in Gulberg. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during heavy rain, avoid unnecessary travel in waterlogged areas, and stay updated through official weather advisories. With more rainfall expected over the coming hours, emergency response teams remain on standby to address any weather-related emergencies. The ongoing monsoon spell is expected to continue improving weather conditions while increasing the possibility of localized flooding in low-lying areas if heavy showers persist.

  • | |

    HRCP demands probe into Rawalakot clash deaths

    The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for an impartial and independent investigation into reports of deaths and injuries during clashes between protesters and law enforcement personnel in Rawalakot. The violence was reported during the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections on July 27. The HRCP said it was deeply concerned by reports that several people had been killed and many others injured during the clashes. It stressed that the reported casualties must be investigated without political pressure. Videos showing unrest and violence have circulated on social media. However, the details and casualty figures shown in the reports could not be independently verified. The HRCP said authorities have a responsibility to maintain public order. However, that responsibility must not undermine the right to life or peaceful assembly. The rights body urged authorities to immediately stop further violence. It also called for restraint while dealing with protesters. The HRCP said anyone found responsible for unlawful use of force should be held accountable. It also stressed the need to restore public confidence ahead of the remaining phases of the AJK elections. AJK Prime Minister Faisal Rathore also commented on the situation. He said the “blood of innocent Kashmiris” had been spilled and blamed the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) for escalating tensions. The opposition alliance Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP) also condemned the reported violence. It alleged that protesters had faced excessive force during demonstrations. The alliance said tensions in AJK had remained high for several weeks. It described the protesters’ demands as being linked to democratic rights, justice and the rule of law. According to TTAP, protesters had been demonstrating over issues including inflation and unemployment. The alliance claimed that efforts by political figures to engage with protesters and find a peaceful solution had faced restrictions. TTAP also referred to videos circulating online. It claimed that some footage showed unarmed people fleeing on roads amid gunfire. These claims could not be independently verified. The opposition alliance condemned what it described as violations of democratic and human rights principles. It called on political parties and citizens to oppose violence and support peaceful political engagement.

  • | | |

    Lindsay Clancy psychiatrist ‘surprised’ by sui…

    Lindsay Clancy’s psychiatrist testified in court Monday as her defense lawyer questioned whether warning signs were missed during the Massachusetts mother’s deteriorating mental health in the months before the deaths of her three young children. Dr. Jennifer Tufts, who began treating Clancy in September 2022, faced detailed questioning from defense attorney Kevin Reddington about her approach to treatment, medication decisions and the use of relatively brief video appointments. According to the Associated Press, Reddington argued that Clancy’s mental healthcare may have been inadequate at a time when she was experiencing serious emotional and psychological difficulties. He focused on 25-minute telehealth appointments, computerized clinical forms and the numerous medications prescribed as Clancy reported different symptoms and side effects. During questioning, Reddington challenged Tufts over whether Clancy should have received more intensive or in-person care. When asked why she did not recommend that Clancy meet her face-to-face instead of continuing with video appointments, Tufts said she did not believe there was a problem with providing treatment through telehealth. The psychiatrist also told jurors she was “surprised” to learn that Clancy had contacted a suicide hotline twice while receiving treatment. Tufts said Clancy had denied experiencing suicidal thoughts during their treatment, although she acknowledged that she had been “close to feeling suicidal.” Reddington highlighted an appointment roughly two months before Clancy strangled her children, asking the psychiatrist what she had done after Clancy described feeling hopeless. Tufts responded that she had reassured Clancy that there was hope and that treatment options and different programs were available. She said her goal was to make Clancy understand that she still had options and reasons to hope. Reddington highlighted an appointment roughly two months before Clancy strangled her children, asking the psychiatrist what she had done after Clancy described feeling hopeless. Tufts had previously testified for prosecutors that Clancy initially sought treatment because of anxiety and had raised concerns about medication side effects. Court records indicate that Clancy was prescribed more than a dozen psychiatric medications through multiple healthcare providers before the killings. The testimony is part of the ongoing trial involving Clancy, whose case has drawn significant attention because of the deaths of her three children. The defense continues to examine the care she received and whether her mental health deterioration was properly recognized and addressed before the tragedy. As the trial continues, jurors are expected to hear further testimony about Clancy’s mental state, treatment history and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of her children.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *