England vs Pakistan 1st Test, Day 3: 5 talking points

#4. The openers disappoint

Cook could not replicate his performance in the first innings

England were coming into the second innings trailing by 179 runs. At this point, they needed their openers to give them a strong start. However, the openers failed miserably to do so.

Alastair scored only a run before a full delivery from Mohammad Abbas trapped him lbw.

Cook's partner Mark Stoneman hit a boundary and batted patiently for 45 deliveries. However, Stoneman could not stay any longer as a terrific delivery from Shadab Khan shattered his off-stump and he departed for just 9.

Both openers, particularly Stoneman will need to perform better in the next match if England are to win it.