Pakistan takes control of third test
Published:Thursday | August 19, 2010 | 5:55 PM
Azhar Ali helped Pakistan take a firm grip on the third test by scoring a test-best 92 not out before hosts England were reduced to 6 for one at stumps on today’s second day at The Oval.
England captain Andrew Strauss departed to the fourth ball of the second innings for 4, caught at second slip off Mohammad Amir.
The under-pressure Alastair Cook was yet to score with night watchman James Anderson on 2.
Pakistan lead by 69, having established a 75-run first-innings advantage after they made 308 replying to England’s first innings score of 233.
The visitors had resumed this morning on 48 for one.
Earlier, England off-spinner Graeme Swann registered his 100th victim in tests by taking the prized wicket of Mohammed Yousuf for 56. He ended as the most successful bowler for England with four for 68 off 27.2 overs.
James Anderson and Stuart Broad have taken two wickets apiece.
After losing at Trent Bridge and Edgbaston, Pakistan need to win the match and the final test at Lord's starting August 26 to draw the series, while England are seeking a seventh straight test victory.