Rain delays England’s charge on day-3

Hosts resume at 81-3 with 261-run lead over Pakistan

Rain delayed the start of play on day three of the second Test between Pakistan and England at Lord's on Saturday, with the hosts firmly in control after a dominant second day.

England will resume their second innings at 81-3, holding a 261-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 110 in reply to England's first-innings 290.

Emilio Gay was unbeaten on 30 and Harry Brook on seven when bad light brought an early end to the second day's play.

Pakistan's innings collapsed in just 38 overs despite a fighting 46 from opener Azan Awais. Saud Shakeel added 16 but England's pace attack proved too strong, with Ollie Robinson taking 4-11 in a devastating spell.

Jofra Archer claimed three wickets, while Josh Tongue took two as Pakistan struggled to build partnerships against England's relentless seamers.

England also endured a shaky start to their second innings. Khurram Shahzad dismissed Ben Duckett and Jordan Cox cheaply before Mohammad Ali removed England captain Joe Root for 24.

Gay and Brook steadied the innings, however, surviving until the close to leave England in a commanding position.

With more rain forecast, interruptions could complicate England's attempt to push for victory, but Pakistan face a daunting task if they are to keep the hosts from taking control of the three-Test series.