Rory Dollard

England reached 366 for eight, a lead of 195 over Pakistan, on day two of the first Rothesay Test at Headingley. Harry Brook made 91 before Ali Usman bowled him just short of a hometown century, while Jordan Cox scored 73, Joe Root 66 and Dan Lawrence 51. Pakistan’s bowlers and fielders were undermined by several missed chances and errors, leaving England in a strong position to pursue victory.

England captain Harry Brook welcomed fast bowler Brydon Carse back to the squad for the final two ODIs against India following his injury return. Carse, the leading wicket-taker during the Ashes, recently resumed playing in the Vitality Blast and is expected to strengthen England’s bowling options. His selection may prompt rotation among other seamers as England look to improve their 50‑over form. Liam Dawson, enjoying a late‑career resurgence, emphasised his continued value after contributing a key innings in the first ODI.

Ben Stokes endorsed vice‑captain Harry Brook as his successor as England Test captain following his retirement from international cricket, calling the move a natural progression. With England not playing red‑ball cricket for seven weeks, Brook and former captain Joe Root remain the realistic options. Stokes expressed strong support for Brook despite past off‑field incidents, while offering a more reserved assessment of head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key as they face scrutiny following recent poor results. Stokes ruled out any future return to play, including for the next Ashes series.