England have broken more records as they rack up 657 all out in the first Test against Pakistan, heading for a draw with the calm hosts 181-0 at stumps on day four.
The hosts, who began the day on 583-8, added 74 runs in the morning session before declaring on 657-9. This is the highest total ever scored in a Test match at Lord’s, surpassing the previous record of 654-5 set by India in 1990.
England’s total was also the highest ever scored in a Test match against Pakistan, surpassing the previous record of 651-7 set by Australia in 2010.
The record-breaking innings was led by a brilliant century from opener Alastair Cook, who scored 147 off just 191 balls. He was ably supported by Joe Root, who scored a century of his own, and Jonny Bairstow, who scored a half-century.
Pakistan’s response was calm and composed, with openers Azhar Ali and Shan Masood batting through the day to reach 181-0 at stumps. Azhar Ali was the star of the show, scoring an unbeaten century off just 166 balls.
The two sides will now look to the fifth and final day of the Test match, with the draw looking increasingly likely.
England’s record-breaking performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff. It is also a sign of the team’s growing confidence and maturity, which will be crucial if they are to challenge for the Ashes later this year.
The performance also bodes well for the future of English cricket, with the team showing that they can compete with the best in the world.
England will now look to build on this performance in the second Test, which begins on Thursday. With the series level at 0-0, the hosts will be hoping to take a lead and put one foot in the door of a series victory.