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The ENG vs PAK second Test has been shrouded in drama, more for action off the field than what’s transpiring on the field. On the first day, several reports said that the visiting side had threatened to boycott the Lord’s Test. Pakistan Cricket Board wasn’t happy with Sky Sports’ decision to broadcast Imran Khan’s sons Kasim and Sulaiman’s interview with Michael Atherton.

Forms Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmedwho is now the coach of the national side, spoke to the media after stumps on Day 1. The 39-year-old was asked to comment on the boycott threat, to which he said: “I don’t know anything. We were focusing on the match.”

“Are you talking about the interview? We don’t know about the interview,” he added. He revealed that they were having their lunch when the entire issue transpired. Meanwhile, Babar Azam‘s team was bowled out for just 110 to hand England a massive lead of 180 runs. The hosts reached 81 runs for the loss of three wickets at the end of the day.

Pakistan coach expresses concerns regarding batting

Azan Awais and Saud Shakeel were the only two players who were able to reach double figures. The rest of the batting unit folded like a pack of cards. For the English side, Ollie Robinson took four wickets.

“If you see, batting is a concern for us. We need to improve. Our bowling unit performed well compared to the last game. Questions are being asked,but unfortunately, our batting hasn’t clicked so far, but we are still hopeful. Cricket is a funny game, and anything can happen,” Sarfaraz said.

“The team has played a host of white-ball games since last year. We played T20 cricket mostly, including the Asia Cup and T20 WC. However, I don’t want to use this as an excuse, and we have to adjust our game as per the formats. We cannot hide the fact that the side is getting bowled out inside 40 overs. The batters will have to spend some time on the pitch. It is going to be tough for 30-40 balls, but once you see that through, there is always a chance of scoring runs.”