English singer Laura Wright performed Pakistan’s national anthem before the first Test between England and Pakistan at Headingley on Wednesday, setting the stage for a dramatic opening session.

Robinson makes immediate impact

England won the toss and chose to bowl in overcast conditions, and Ollie Robinson needed only one delivery to make an impact. He dismissed Azan Awais lbw with the first ball of the series. Awais reviewed the decision, but the original call was upheld, marking the first time a wicket had fallen from the opening delivery of a Test series in England.

Robinson then trapped Pakistan captain Shan Masood lbw for five, leaving the visitors struggling at 6-2 after just a few overs. The seamer finished the rain-shortened session with figures of 2-12 from five overs as part of England’s four-man pace attack.

Rain cuts short opening session

Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique were at the crease when heavy rain interrupted play, with Pakistan on 23-2 after 9.4 overs. The weather arrived around 50 minutes into the session and forced the players from the field, bringing forward the lunch break to 12:30 p.m. local time.

Joe Root’s return to the England captaincy was also eventful. The former skipper used both of England’s reviews during the opening session, but neither decision was overturned.

Both sides seeking a Test revival

England entered the series having won only two of its previous 10 Tests, while Pakistan had recorded two victories in its last seven. Pakistan was also seeking its first Test series win in England since 1996.

With play disrupted by rain, England had secured an ideal start through Robinson. Pakistan’s middle order will now be tasked with rebuilding the innings when the match resumes.