Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed laments Pakistan's woeful batting collapse at Lord's

Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed expressed deep disappointment with his side’s batting effort in the first innings of the ongoing Lord’s Test, where they were bundled out for just 110 in 37.2 overs. It marked their worst batting performance of the tour, having been dismissed for 171 in the first innings at Headingley and then folding for 135 in the second, losing by an innings and 103 runs.

“The batting is a concern,” Sarfaraz said. “In both Tests we haven’t batted well. We try to create a combination that strengthens the batting. But unfortunately, that didn’t work this innings either.”

Sarfaraz praised Azan Awais and urged the rest of the batting group to follow his example. The young opener faced 17 overs and fell just four short of a half‑century.

“The team keeps getting out in 30‑odd overs,” Sarfaraz said. “We’re unable to spend time at the crease. They’re challenging conditions for batters, but you’re rewarded if you spend time at the crease. The first 30–40 balls are difficult for batters, but if you get out of them, you’ll find it easier, like Azan did. The first hour for a batter requires good technique as a batting unit.”

England have reached 81 for 3 in their second innings and already lead by 261. Sarfaraz, however, remained optimistic that Pakistan could still compete if they manage to restrict the deficit.

“Strange things happen in cricket, so I’m still hopeful,” he said. “There’s still one innings left. If we can get them out in the next 70–80 runs and chase down a target around 300–350, there’s a chance.”

History, though, is firmly against Pakistan. They have never scored more than 250 in the fourth innings of a Test in England, and given their current form, a turnaround appears highly unlikely.

Pakistan's innings-by-innings list in Tests played in England