Former England captain Nasser Hussain launched a sharp attack on the umpires after play was halted early at Lord’s, calling the decision a joke while commentating for Sky Sports Cricket.
England were firmly on top, their overall lead standing at 357. They were 177 for 7 in their second innings after bowling Pakistan out for 110 in the first. Persistent rain had wrecked the day, allowing only 24.5 overs before the umpires brought proceedings to an end. The official reason was poor light.
Hussain’s objections
Hussain felt conditions were getting better and that play should have been allowed to carry on. He also spoke up for the spectators, who had sat through hours of rain waiting for the players to return.
He noted that the skies were brightening and wondered why the covers were still on. In his words, it was the brightest it had been for about eight hours and the rain had stopped, so the covers should come off and play resume.
His reaction captured the mood around a day when fans saw very little cricket despite their patience.
England still in charge
The early finish leaves England in a strong position for the next day. Pakistan face a huge task after their first-innings total of 110.
England had already won the opening Test at Headingley by 103 runs, so they lead the three-match series. With another big advantage at Lord’s, Pakistan need a major turnaround to stay in contention.
The second Test is scheduled to run until 31 August, and the third and final match begins in Birmingham on 9 September.
