England beat Pakistan by 194 runs to win series with a test to spare

England completed a dominant series victory over Pakistan, winning the second Test at Lord's by 194 runs to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The win followed a comprehensive innings victory in the first Test at Headingley, where Joe Root's return as captain got off to a perfect start.

In the first Test, England bowled Pakistan out for 171 on the opening day, with Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue each taking five wickets. Root and Jordan Cox then scored fifties as England built a commanding lead, eventually bowling Pakistan out for 135 in their second innings to win by an innings and 103 runs. The victory was a much-needed boost for a side that had lost its captain and coach in the months before.

The second Test at Lord's saw England again take control. After being bowled out for 290 in their first innings, they dismissed Pakistan for just 110, with Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue impressing. Dan Lawrence's half-century helped England set a target of 389, and despite some resistance from Pakistan, including a brave 97 from Saad Shaqil, they were bowled out with 194 runs short of the target.

The series was played against a backdrop of off-field turmoil. Ben Stokes had stepped down as captain, leading to Root's reappointment, and Stephen Fleming was brought in as head coach. Questions over a drinking culture surfaced after Brydon Carse was involved in an incident outside a nightclub. Root, who had been angered by the distractions, was pleased with the team's focus on the pitch.

England's bowlers were the key throughout, with Robinson, Tongue, and Archer consistently troubling Pakistan's batsmen. The batting unit also stepped up, with Root, Cox, Lawrence, and Harry Brook all contributing. The series win provides a strong foundation for the final Test, with England looking to complete a clean sweep.