New Root era begins with huge win over Pakistan

England recorded an innings and 103‑run victory over Pakistan in the opening Rothesay Test at Headingley, clinching a 1‑0 lead in the three‑match series. Pakistan were dismissed for 171 in their first innings, with Mohammad Shafique top‑scoring on 61 while Josh Tongue claimed five for 46 and Ollie Robinson took five for 51. Forced to follow on, Pakistan managed only 135 in their second innings, Mohammad Rizwan contributing 41. England responded with a substantial 409. Harry Brook struck 91, Ben Cox added 73 and Joe Root made 66. Pakistan’s Naseem Shah was the most successful bowler with five for 95. The win marked Root’s second spell as England captain and came after a period of off‑field turbulence that saw Ben Stokes step down and Brendon McCullum relieved of his Test coaching duties. It was England’s third triumph in eleven matches. By lunchtime on the third day Pakistan had lost three wickets, making it unlikely the match would extend beyond the start of the new Premier League season. England had progressed from an overnight 366 for eight to 409, leaving Pakistan a target of 238 to avoid the follow‑on. Jofra Archer removed Imam‑ul‑Haq on the eleventh ball of the innings, after which Tongue snapped up three wickets in two overs to finish with match figures of eight for 89. Robinson ended with a career‑best eight for 80. England will look to seal the series with a win in the second Test at Lord’s, which begins on Thursday. Scorecard: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/e-229352