Tongue takes four as England seize control against Pakistan

Josh Tongue took four wickets as England bowled Pakistan out for 133 before reaching 156 for four on the opening day of the third Test at Edgbaston. England finished 23 runs ahead with six first-innings wickets remaining, although players from both teams said the contest could still shift during the second morning, according to The Guardian.

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Tongue led an effective England seam attack, while Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer divided the other six Pakistan wickets evenly. The fast bowler also used a wobble-seam delivery in a match for the first time after working on it with Robinson during training. The variation produced a wicket and gave Tongue another option as England exploited helpful conditions.

Pakistan's difficulties continued across a series in which they have now been dismissed below 200 in each of their five innings. England have not been bowled out for fewer than 200 during the series. Saud Shakeel top-scored for the visitors with 43 and acknowledged that lateral movement, moisture in the pitch and overcast weather had aided England's bowlers, while also pointing to soft dismissals.

Pakistan did respond with the ball, reducing England to four wickets down before the close. Emilio Gay and Harry Brook both reached half-centuries, with Brook unbeaten at stumps. The position left England in front but short of establishing a decisive advantage, making the start of day two important for both sides.

A notable positive for Pakistan was the impact of 21-year-old fast bowler Razaullah. Playing only the ninth first-class match of his career, he dismissed Gay and Joe Root. Shakeel described his teammate as a raw talent whose pace and unusual action made him difficult to face, despite his limited senior experience.

Tongue said England's immediate priority would be negotiating the first hour on Thursday, while Shakeel maintained Pakistan could return to the match by dismissing the hosts quickly. England's lead and remaining wickets place the home side in the stronger overnight position, but Pakistan's early breakthroughs ensured the third Test remained competitive after a bowler-dominated opening day.