England 177-7 at close of day three of second Test at Lord’s, lead 357

England were 177 for 7 at the close of day three of the second men’s Test against Pakistan at Lord’s, leading by 357.

Pakistan have made only 416 from three innings in the series. The Lord’s pitch moved from tricky for batting to downright treacherous during the day. Dan Lawrence was the standout batter on that difficult surface.

Dan Lawrence finished on 50 not out off 66 balls. His innings was described as the day’s starring contribution and, according to the report, he made batting look easier than Harry Brook did.

Mohammad Abbas produced a tireless spell with the ball and took the crucial wicket of Harry Brook. His performance gave him a chance of taking a five-for that would put him on the honours board, up where he belongs.

Harry Brook’s dismissal proved a significant moment on a testing pitch, while Lawrence’s unbeaten fifty provided England with a platform at the close.

Tomorrow’s forecast is expected to be a bit better, and Joe Root may bat on long enough to see if Dan Lawrence can reach a hundred, though he may decide England need to press on with sealing the series.