Dan Lawrence struck an unbeaten 89 as England extended their lead against Pakistan to 342 before rain brought an early close on the fourth day at The Oval. The hosts reached 214 for 5 in their second innings, with Lawrence anchoring the innings after the loss of early wickets.
England Build Substantial Lead
Resuming on their overnight score, England lost Zak Crawley early, but Lawrence combined with Joe Root in a 97-run stand to steady the innings. Root contributed 45 before falling to spinner Sajid Khan, while Ben Stokes and Harry Brook also departed cheaply.
Lawrence, who has faced 142 balls and hit 11 fours, remained unbeaten alongside Chris Woakes, who was on 12 not out. The lead of 342 gives England a strong platform as they push for a series-clinching victory.
Rain Interrupts Final Session
Persistent drizzle forced the umpires to call off play at 4:45pm, with the final session abandoned without a ball being bowled. The weather is forecast to be clearer on the final day, offering England a realistic chance of taking the remaining seven Pakistan wickets.
Pakistan, who trail by 342 runs, will need to bat out the final day to salvage a draw, with their openers already back in the pavilion. England will be hoping for a full day's play to press for the win that would seal the series.
