England vs Pakistan LIVE Score, 3rd Test Day 1

Edgbaston, 3rd Test — Day 1

The evening air carries that familiar Test match hush, does it not? The moment before the bowler begins his run-up, when everything holds its breath.

England, having already conducted the series in their favour, won the toss here at Edgbaston and chose to bowl first against a Pakistan side reborn in almost every respect.

Joe Root, whose bat has found little rhythm throughout this series, named an unchanged England XI. It is interesting how a musician's form ebbs and flows — today, he simply must find his tempo once more.

Pakistan, however, have rewritten their entire scorecard. In a bold and dramatic move, they sent seven players home after the Lord's defeat — along with both their head coach and bowling coach. Four changes to the playing XI.

The debuts belong to three newcomers: wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori, and bowlers Imran Randhawa and Razaullah Khan. Opening batter Saim Ayub returns to the fold. A team rebuilding its soul, one might say.

England lead the three-match series 2-0, having dismantled Pakistan by 194 runs at Lord's. Today is the curtain-raiser on the final movement.

The stage is set. Let the rhythm begin.

Source: NDTV Sports