English singer Laura Wright performed Pakistan’s national anthem before the first Test between England and Pakistan at Headingley on Wednesday, where Joe Root’s return as England captain began with a strong start for the hosts.England won the toss and elected to bowl first in overcast conditions, with Ollie Robinson making an immediate impact. The fast bowler dismissed Azan Awais lbw with the very first ball of the series. Awais reviewed the decision, but the original call was upheld.It was the first time in England that a wicket had fallen from the opening delivery of a Test series.Robinson then struck again, trapping Pakistan captain Shan Masood lbw for five. His second wicket left Pakistan struggling at 6-2 after just a few overs.Watch Laura Wright perform Pakistan’s national anthem:
Robinson puts Pakistan under pressure
Robinson, who was part of England’s four-man pace attack, finished the rain-shortened session with figures of 2-12 from five overs. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique were at the crease when rain interrupted play, with Pakistan reaching 23-2 after 9.4 overs.Root’s return to the captaincy was also eventful. The former England skipper used two reviews during the opening session, but neither decision was overturned.Heavy rain arrived around 50 minutes into the session, forcing the players off and bringing forward the lunch break to 12:30 p.m. local time.Both teams had entered the series looking to improve their recent Test form. England had won only two of its previous 10 Tests, while Pakistan had managed two victories in its last seven.Pakistan had also been searching for its first Test series win in England since 1996.With play interrupted by rain, England had made the ideal start through Robinson, while Pakistan was left needing its middle order to rebuild the innings when play resumed.
