Pakistan break unwanted Test match records at Edgbaston

The leaden skies and gloomy mood at lunch on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston reflected the sinking morale inside the Pakistan dressing room. A series of controversial decisions by the Pakistan Cricket Board were intended to act as a much-needed defibrillator for the struggling squad.

Despite the drastic attempts to revive their performance, the tourists showed few signs of life as they slumped to 133 all out. With only 33.5 overs played in the game, their prospects in Birmingham already appear deeply troubling for anyone following the series.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

In terms of mitigation, CricViz data recorded the pitch bounce inconsistency rating at 5.7, which exceeds the figures from Edgbaston matches in 2025 against India at 2.6, 2024 against the West Indies at 3.2, and 2023 against Australia at 3.3. Meanwhile, England's bowling attack capitalized effectively under autumnal conditions.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan noted that Pakistan were clearly devoid of confidence following the disastrous morning session. The dismissal of the top five batters left the Thwaite Memorial scoreboard showing a dismal 48 runs, cementing an unwanted historical milestone.