Jofra Archer Dismisses Speed Gun as England Dominate Pakistan 2026

Jofra Archer's ferocious spell of fast bowling, his fastest in Test cricket with an average speed of 90.7mph, helped England dominate Pakistan in the second Test, but the bowler himself downplayed the speed gun readings. Archer took three wickets as England bowled Pakistan out for 110, taking a commanding 180-run first-innings lead. Despite the impressive numbers, Archer insisted the speed gun was malfunctioning, adding a touch of humor to England's dominant performance.

Archer's Record-Breaking Spell

Archer's spell at the start of Pakistan's first innings was his quickest in Test cricket, with an average speed of 90.7mph. He finished with three wickets, breaking the tourists' spirit and setting the tone for England's attack. However, Archer was quick to downplay the readings, saying, "Nah, the speed gun isn't working properly. I saw some of them [speeds] and I was like, it didn't really feel that way. I don't know who's up in the box working it, but thanks."

He recalled a similar experience during the 2019 Ashes at the same venue, noting, "I remember playing here in the Ashes in 2019 and thinking the same thing. Maybe the speed guns are a little bit dodgy here." Despite his modesty, the speed and accuracy of his bowling were undeniable, as Pakistan's batting lineup crumbled under the pressure.

England's Pace Attack Fires

England's four-man pace attack was in full force, with Ollie Robinson taking four wickets and Josh Tongue chipping in with two. Gus Atkinson went unrewarded but contributed to the relentless pressure. Archer praised his teammates, saying, "Everyone chips in. Ollie's been phenomenal since he started [playing] again. Gus and Tonguey, everyone's picking up the slack. With this attack you don't have to go and do too much. You don't have to try too hard. You know someone's going to back you up."

The collective effort was key to England's dominance, as they bowled Pakistan out for just 110 in their first innings. The young opener Azan Awais was the only batter to offer resistance, scoring 46, while Saud Shakeel was the next highest with a modest contribution.

Key Performances and Match Impact

England's bowling performance has put them in a commanding position, with a lead of 180 runs. The team's depth and unity were evident, as each bowler played a crucial role in dismantling Pakistan's batting order.

Team Effort and Strategy

England's strategy of using a four-man pace attack paid off, with each bowler complementing the others. Archer's early breakthroughs set the stage, while Robinson and Tongue cleaned up the middle and lower order. The team's ability to back each other up was a key factor in their success.

Archer highlighted the importance of not overexerting, saying, "You don't have to try too hard. You know someone's going to back you up." This trust and camaraderie within the attack have been instrumental in England's recent form.

What This Means for the Series

England's dominant performance has put them in the driver's seat in the second Test. With a significant lead, they are well-positioned to push for a win and potentially seal the series. Pakistan will need to regroup and find a way to counter England's pace attack in their second innings.

Key Takeaways

• Jofra Archer's fastest Test spell (90.7mph average) helped England dominate.
• England bowled Pakistan out for 110, taking a 180-run lead.
• Ollie Robinson took four wickets, with Archer and Tongue providing support.
• Archer downplayed speed gun readings, adding humor to the performance.
• England's pace attack showcased depth and teamwork.

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