Ali Usman’s historic haul fails to prevent England’s commanding lead at Headingley

Pakistan’s Ali Usman delivered a standout bowling performance in the first Test at Headingley, claiming five wickets for 95 runs from 24 overs. The left-arm spinner’s effort marked his first five-wicket haul in England and established him as the first visiting left-arm spinner to achieve this feat in the country since Shakib Al Hasan in 2010.

Despite Usman’s individual brilliance, the result remained firmly in England’s favour. The hosts, who resumed play on the third day at 366-8, were eventually bowled out for 409 in 89.5 overs. This total allowed England to secure a commanding 238-run lead in the match, a significant advantage in the three-match series.

Usman played a pivotal role in limiting England’s total by dismissing several key batters. He removed Jordan Cox for 73, Harry Brook for 91, Dan Lawrence for 51, Gus Atkinson for three, and Ollie Robinson for a duck. Brook’s 91 was the highest individual score for England, while Cox and Lawrence also contributed half-centuries.

The lower order provided a crucial contribution to England’s innings. Jofra Archer remained unbeaten on 23, hitting two fours and a six, while the remaining lower-order batters added 43 runs. Jamie Smith was dismissed for 25 after miscuing a pull shot to midwicket, and Josh Tongue was bowled for eight as England lost their final two wickets.

Pakistan’s bowling attack provided additional support to Usman. Khurram Shahzad finished with figures of 3/133, while Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali took one wicket each for 78 and 89 runs respectively. Earlier in the match, Pakistan had been bowled out for just 171 in their first innings, setting the stage for England’s dominant position.

The first Test is part of a three-match series that will continue at Lord’s and Edgbaston. Joe Root is serving as England’s permanent captain for this series, marking the start of his second tenure in the role following the international retirement of Ben Stokes.