Match Summary: First Rothesay Test
- Result: England won by an innings and 103 runs, leading the three-match series 1-0
- England: 409 (Brook 91, Cox 73, Root 66; Usman 5-95)
- Pakistan: 171 (Shafique 61; Tongue 5-46, Robinson 5-51) and 135 (Rizwan 41)
Joe Root’s second tenure as England Test captain began with a decisive performance at Headingley, where his side dismantled Pakistan within three days. The hosts steamrollered the tourists for just 135 in their second innings, clinching the first Test by an innings and 103 runs.
This victory serves as a significant morale boost for England, marking only their third win in 11 matches. The result follows a period of turbulence that included the retirement of former captain Ben Stokes and the departure of Test coach Brendon McCullum. While the win is welcome, the lopsided nature of the contest—driven by a dismal showing from the opposition—made it difficult to gauge the full extent of England’s progress.
England resumed on the third morning at 366-8, eventually pushing their total to 409 and leaving Pakistan needing 238 to force a second innings. The tourists’ collapse began early when Jofra Archer dismissed Imam-ul-Haq in the 11th delivery of the innings.
The bowling attack proved clinical throughout the match. Josh Tongue claimed three wickets in two overs shortly after the lunch break, finishing with match figures of 8-89. Meanwhile, Ollie Robinson delivered a standout performance, securing a career-best match haul of 8-80.
By Friday lunchtime, it was evident the match would conclude well ahead of schedule. England will now look to secure the series with a win in the second Test, which is set to begin at Lord’s next Thursday. The report also notes that given the dismal showing of the opposition, but it is hard to say they have learned a great deal from this week in Leeds.
