England Survives Pakistan Fightback to Complete 3-0 Test Series Whitewash at Edgbaston

The third Test between England and Pakistan began at Edgbaston with high expectations, as England had already secured a 2-0 lead in the series. Pakistan, reeling from recent defeats and a shake-up in leadership and squad, fielded a new-look team for this final match.

From the outset, England's bowlers dominated. Pakistan's top order collapsed, setting an unwanted record for having their top five dismissed for single digit scores. The visitors managed only 133 runs in their first innings, putting England firmly in control after day one.

On September 9, England capitalized on their momentum, closing the first day with a lead after reaching 156-4. Their bowlers, especially Josh Tongue, had set the tone with four wickets.

Rain interrupted play on the second day, but England remained in command. Pakistan, trailing by 268 runs, were reduced to 52-2 by stumps, and England looked set for a comfortable win.

Day three saw a dramatic shift. Pakistan's lower order, led by 21-year-old debutant Razaullah, staged an extraordinary fightback. Razaullah smashed 81 runs with nine sixes, setting a new record for a No. 9 batter on Test debut. Pakistan posted a robust 449 in their second innings, giving England a modest but challenging target of 130.

England's run chase began shakily on the fourth day. They lost two wickets in the opening over, briefly raising hopes for an upset. However, Joe Root steadied the innings with an unbeaten 62, guiding England to victory.

England won the third Test by eight wickets, completing a 3-0 series whitewash over Pakistan. This is the first time England has swept Pakistan in a home Test series.

Despite Pakistan's chaotic start and mid-series changes, Razaullah's debut and their second-innings resilience provided bright spots for the visitors. England, meanwhile, demonstrated depth and composure, overcoming a final-day scare to seal the series.