England survive scare to sweep Pakistan series

September 12, 2026

England wrapped up a 3-0 series whitewash over Pakistan at Edgbaston, securing an eight-wicket victory on day four despite an early morning fright. Chasing a modest target of 130 after Pakistan piled up 449 in their follow-on—sparked by Shan Masood's 95 and debutant Razaullah's 81—the hosts tumbled to 2-2 in the first over when Muhammad Abbas dismissed Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay on consecutive deliveries.

Joe Root survived an early dismissal on 23 due to a Mohammad Ali no-ball before combining with Jordan Cox in an unbroken 128-run partnership. Cox notched an undefeated 59 while Root steered England over the line on 62 not out prior to lunch, giving Root a victorious campaign in his return as skipper following Ben Stokes' retirement in June.

England had earlier posted 453, led by Harry Brook's 75, after bowling out the visitors for 133 on the opening day behind Josh Tongue's 4-42. The national side now transitions to white-ball action against Sri Lanka in Southampton under Brendon McCullum and assistant Kevin Pietersen, while incoming Test head coach Stephen Fleming prepares to take over ahead of upcoming winter tours to South Africa, Bangladesh, and Australia.