Jofra Archer delivered a spell of elite fast bowling on day two of the second Test at Lord's, taking three for 26 from 11.2 overs as Pakistan were reduced to 110 for nine. The 29-year-old's pace and control stood out on a day when the tourists offered little resistance, with Archer reaching 94mph and beating the bat repeatedly.
Archer's Dominant Spell
Archer's dismissal of Mohammad Abbas, Pakistan's 36-year-old tailender, was the highlight of his spell. The ball was 90mph, back of a length on the hip, and Abbas could only fend it away. The next delivery was full and splayed the stumps, ending the innings. Archer was charged with menace and easy power, producing his fastest Test-match opening spell.
He clearly enjoys bowling from the Pavilion End, liking the slope and the sight screen. But there was also a brittle quality to the spectacle, almost exactly seven years on from his debut on this ground. Archer's figures could have been even better, with dropped catches and reprieved lbws.
Pakistan's Struggles
Pakistan's batting was anonymous throughout, with Azan Awais beaten 14 times outside his off-stump. The team has been structurally damaged by its exclusion from an India-centred universe, and selection has been questionable. The tourists offered little, and their collapse was described as a "soggy marzipan castle" by observers.
At the other end, Ollie Robinson took four for 11, but his excellence was less surprising given the conditions. Archer was the one element of fire, holding the day together with his rare quality.
Career Reflections
Archer's Test career has been brief and interrupted, with 77 wickets at an average of 28. He has suffered injuries, including a stress fracture in his elbow, and has never quite faced forward at the right time. His career may be remembered for scattered moments of light, like this one at Lord's.
The day ended with Pakistan at 110 for nine, and rain is forecast for Saturday. The match continues, with England looking to press home their advantage.
