England close in on Pakistan whitewash in third Test as Robinson shines

What the report says

England moved to the brink of a 3-0 Test series sweep over Pakistan after Ollie Robinson struck twice early in Pakistan’s second innings on day two of the third Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Pakistan were 52-2 when rain ended play early, still needing 268 runs to avoid being forced to bat again, and their position was described as increasingly bleak.

According to Reuters’ report carried by Al Jazeera, Robinson continued his strong summer form with figures of 2-10 from six overs, removing Saim Ayub for a duck and then Abdullah Shafique soon after. Pakistan batting coach Mike Smith praised Robinson’s consistency, while captain Shan Masood was unbeaten on 21 and opener Azan Awais was 29 not out at stumps.

England had earlier built a commanding first-innings lead of 320, finishing on 453. Harry Brook made 75 before being run out, while Dan Lawrence scored 65 and Jamie Smith added 69 despite a finger injury that limited his wicketkeeping. Robinson also contributed 50 with the bat. The article noted that Pakistan handed a debut to 21-year-old pacer Razaullah, one of few positives for the visitors, although he was expensive. The wider context is that Pakistan have now lost 15 of their last 20 Tests.