Pakistan dig in as Masood frustrates England

The visitors' position looked desperate on Thursday after they were bowled out for just 133 and then lost two wickets without scoring in their second innings. But rain interruptions and disciplined batting allowed Pakistan to survive the second day and return with renewed resolve on Friday.

Masood, who remained unbeaten on 83 at lunch, anchored the innings with a patient display, while Awais provided valuable support in a 125-run partnership for the third wicket. Awais reached 59 before edging a delivery from spinner Dan Lawrence down the leg side to stand-in wicketkeeper Jordan Cox.

The umpire initially rejected England's appeal, but the decision was overturned following a review, ending a partnership that had revived Pakistan's hopes of avoiding another heavy defeat. Babar Azam joined Masood and looked comfortable, reaching 26 not out by the interval as Pakistan sought to build a total capable of making England bat again.

England had taken control of the match on the opening day after dismissing Pakistan for 133 before accelerating to 453, leaving the visitors with a mountain to climb. Joe Root's side have been equally dominant throughout the series, winning the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs before securing the second by 194 runs.

For Pakistan, the third Test represents a final opportunity to avoid a 3-0 series whitewash and provide some relief after a troubled tour. The tourists have endured a turbulent campaign, with seven players released and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and assistant Umar Gul dismissed following the second Test defeat.

Four changes were subsequently made to the Birmingham side. Pakistan's immediate challenge, however, is simpler: survive long enough to deny England another emphatic victory. Awais' departure briefly checked their recovery, but Masood's continued presence and Babar's fluent start gave Pakistan reason to believe they could at least force England to work for the result.

With England holding a commanding lead, Pakistan still face a formidable task. But after the collapse that threatened to end the contest inside two days, their determined resistance has ensured the third Test remains alive.