England close in on Pakistan sweep after Robinson strikes at Edgbaston

England moved within eight wickets of completing a 3-0 Test series sweep over Pakistan after dominating the second day at Edgbaston. The Guardian reported that the hosts reached 453 all out before Pakistan closed on 52 for two, still 268 runs short of making England bat again.

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Resuming the day on 156 for four, England added 297 runs before being dismissed by tea. Harry Brook scored 75, Dan Lawrence made 65 and Jamie Smith contributed 69, but none of the three converted their innings into a century. Their combined work nevertheless gave England a commanding first-innings position after Pakistan's collapse on day one.

Smith's contribution came despite what The Guardian described as a suspected broken finger. No confirmed diagnosis was reported, so his condition remained uncertain at the close of play. England's total ensured Pakistan faced a long attempt to extend the match after tea.

Ollie Robinson then struck twice in his first over. Saim Ayub was caught by Brook at second slip from the opening delivery, completing a pair in the match, before Abdullah Shafique edged the fourth ball to Joe Root. Robinson's double-wicket maiden immediately left Pakistan under severe pressure.

The evening session lasted only 12.4 overs because rain moved across Birmingham and forced the ground staff to cover the outfield. Pakistan captain Shan Masood received a reprieve on 13 when Ben Duckett could not hold a diving chance at third slip. The interruption prevented England from pressing their advantage further before stumps.

Root's catch to dismiss Shafique was the 220th of his career and restored his position as the leading outfield catcher in Test cricket, according to The Guardian's report. Pakistan will resume on 52 for two on the third morning, with England strongly placed to secure victory and finish the series unbeaten.