Last updated: 2026-08-27 · Published: 2026-08-27
England and Pakistan could not begin the second Test at Lord’s on time on Thursday, with rain delaying the toss and the start of play on day one. England hold a 1-0 series lead and are targeting a series win at the home of cricket.
The second Test of Pakistan’s tour of England runs from August 27 to August 31 at Lord’s in London. England’s side, led by Joe Root, enter the match with momentum after the first Test, while Pakistan look to level the series with a stronger showing.
Five points to know
| Match | Second Test, England vs Pakistan, Lord’s |
| Dates | Aug. 27–31, 2026 (day one) |
| Start | Delayed by rain; toss and teams announced after the delay |
| Series | England lead 1-0 after the first Test |
| England | Joe Root’s side seeking a series win |
| Pakistan | Babar Azam says he is about 90% fit and set to return |
| Coverage | Sky Sports and BBC Test Match Special |
England eye a series win at Lord’s
England carried a winning start into the second Test and want to close out the series at the ground where a second-string side recorded a famous victory over Pakistan almost exactly four years ago. The recalls of several frontline players for this match have given Root’s team a settled look as they aim to finish strongly.
Josh Tongue told reporters that a message from Root had “hit home” and reset England’s standards after a mixed recent run. The team are looking to build on the first Test win rather than protect a lead.
Pakistan’s hopes rest on Babar
Pakistan named a pace-heavy attack and hope to get their batting back on track. Babar Azam, their leading batter, said he is about 90% fit and expected to return for the second Test after missing the opening match. His availability is central to Pakistan’s hopes of squaring the series before heading into the final Test.
Watch: What the videos show
It’s Game On! England v Pakistan 2026
The official England & Wales Cricket Board video sets the scene at Lord’s ahead of the Test, showing the squad’s build-up and the mood around the match as England push for a series win.
Babar Azam Press Conference Ahead of Lord’s Test
The captain’s pre-match press conference covers Pakistan’s team news and Babar Azam’s fitness, with the batter confirming he is close to full fitness and ready to return for the series-deciding middle Test.
Confirmed vs. speculation
| Confirmed | Not confirmed |
|---|---|
| The second Test is scheduled at Lord’s, Aug. 27–31 | Both teams’ exact starting XIs (announced at the toss) |
| Rain delayed the toss and start of play on day one | When play will resume on day one |
| England lead the series 1-0 | The match result |
| Babar Azam said he is about 90% fit and set to return | The final series result |
Frequently asked questions
Where is the second Test between England and Pakistan being played?
At Lord’s in London, the home of cricket, from August 27 to August 31, 2026.
Why was the start delayed on day one?
Rain delayed the toss and the start of play on the opening morning.
What is the series score?
England lead 1-0 after winning the first Test.
Is Babar Azam playing?
Babar Azam said he is about 90% fit and set to return for the second Test after missing the opening match.
How many days does the Test run?
It is a five-day Test scheduled across August 27 to August 31.
Who is hosting the coverage?
Live coverage in the UK is on Sky Sports, with ball-by-ball updates and analysis on BBC Test Match Special.
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Sources
- BBC Sport (live score & commentary)
- Sky Sports
- ESPNcricinfo
- Reuters
