England thrash Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs in first Test

What the report says

England began the three-match Test series against Pakistan with a dominant victory at Headingley, winning by an innings and 103 runs inside three days. The result marked Joe Root’s return as England captain in his second permanent spell leading the side, after Ben Stokes stepped down and Brendon McCullum’s red-ball coaching role ended following England’s series loss to New Zealand eight weeks earlier, according to Al Jazeera’s report based on Reuters coverage.

Pakistan were bowled out for 135 in their second innings after England had built a first-innings lead of 238. England finished on 409, with the home side’s seam attack doing most of the damage. Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson were the standout bowlers, while Jofra Archer also played a key role. Mohammad Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan with 41, but the touring batting lineup struggled badly in English conditions.

Rain interrupted play for more than half a day, but it did not alter the outcome. England’s fielding and bowling pressure repeatedly exposed Pakistan’s weaknesses, and the match ended before tea on the third day. Root also made history in the field, moving ahead of Steve Smith on the all-time list for non-wicketkeeper Test catches.

The win gives England early momentum after recent upheaval in their Test setup. The second Test in the series is scheduled to begin at Lord’s on Thursday, with Pakistan hoping captain Babar Azam may return from a finger injury, if available.