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England not picking a spinner feels like going out for a walk without an umbrella | Andy Bull

September 11, 2026 · The Guardian

England's choice to field an exclusively pace-oriented bowling unit proved costly as Pakistan's middle order mounted a resolute resistance, repeatedly repelling a barrage of short-of-a-length deliveries with defensive strokes, evasions, and cuts. Even though Dan Lawrence ultimately chipped in by claiming two wickets, the host side sorely missed the control and variety of a dedicated slow bowler. The prolonged stalemate left the visiting batters questioning the hype surrounding English cricket, which had dominated recent weeks. Meanwhile, spectators in the Hollies Stand turned to their own entertainment around 2:30 p.m. by launching into a vibrant conga line. The costumed procession featured a whimsical mix of characters, including fifteen Fred Flintstones, eleven Oompa Loompas alongside a Willy Wonka, five cardinals with a blow-up companion, four centurions, three towering tequila bottles, two Dave Bedfords, a Geri Halliwell, a Donald Trump, and a Dolly Parton anchoring the line.