England resume at 104-6 with 5-run lead

DUBAI: England will resume today their first innings at 104-6 with a slender five-run lead over Pakistan on second day of the third and final Test match here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Overnight batsmen captain Andrew Strauss and night-watchman James Anderson will make efforts to extend England lead against Pakistan, who were looking for a clean sweep in the series.

Bowlers from both sides dominated the opening day’s play as 16 wickets fell on Friday.

Routed for a low score of 99 in their first innings by England pacemen Stuart Broad (4-36) and James Anderson (3-35), Pakistan spinners moved to the fore to leave England struggling at 104-6.

England, playing for pride after losing the first two Tests and the series, now hold a slight lead on a seemingly batting-friendly pitch.

At the close, Andrew Strauss was unbeaten on 41 and James Anderson was on three not out.