Archer Sceptical of Speed Gun Amidst Lord's Pace Barrage

Jofra Archer delivered a blistering spell of fast bowling at Lord's, tearing through Pakistan's batting order and propelling England into a commanding position in the second Test. The paceman, despite his devastating impact, playfully dismissed the speed gun readings as "dodgy" after his "ferocious spell" averaged over 90mph.

England now stands on the precipice of a dominant series victory, having already secured a comprehensive win in the first Test. With a formidable 261-run lead and seven wickets in hand at stumps, the hosts appear unstoppable.

Archer spearheaded the attack with three crucial wickets for just 26 runs, a performance hailed as his fastest new-ball spell in Test cricket, consistently hitting speeds up to 94mph. Ollie Robinson brilliantly complemented his efforts, ripping through the middle order with outstanding figures of 4 for 11.

"Nah, the speed gun isn't working properly," Archer stated after play. "I saw some of them 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. Maybe the speed guns are a little bit dodgy here."

Earlier, England had posted 290 in their first innings, thanks to solid contributions from Jordan Cox (55), Jamie Smith (61), and Gus Atkinson (45). Pakistan's batting lineup crumbled to a paltry 110 all out, granting England a substantial 180-run first-innings lead.

Only opener Azan Awais offered any sustained resistance for Pakistan, crafting a gritty 46 runs from 102 balls amidst the collapse. Other batsmen largely failed to reach double figures, highlighting persistent batting frailties for the touring side.

Pakistan's head coach, Sarfaraz Ahmed, openly conceded his team's struggles. "The batting is definitely a concern," Ahmed remarked, though he noted Archer's opening spell was a valuable experience for young Awais. Former England international Stuart Broad also lauded Archer, suggesting he was unlucky not to claim a five-wicket haul.

Archer, clearly relishing his return, expressed optimism about England's four-man pace attack, including Robinson, Josh Tongue, and Atkinson. He believes this shared workload could extend his Test career "until I'm 40," a thrilling prospect for English cricket.

This second Test, a crucial fixture in the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship, further solidifies England's dominance against a Pakistan side struggling for rhythm. With the series finale at Edgbaston looming, England's comprehensive control at Lord's points towards a commanding series triumph.