England seized control of the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on day one, with seamers Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue delivering match-winning performances. Robinson took a wicket with the first ball of the series, and both bowlers achieved five-wicket hauls as Pakistan was bowled out for 171.
Under overcast northern skies, Robinson settled nerves by striking immediately against Azan Awais. He later dismissed Saud Shakeel and Khurram Shahzad. Tongue, meanwhile, took four wickets in quick succession, including the crucial scalp of Imam-ul-Haq and captain Salman Agha, before completing his five-for by bowling Mohammad Abbas. This marked the first time since 2006 that two England bowlers had taken five wickets in the same Test innings.
Pakistan's batting collapsed, losing their last eight wickets for just 74 runs. Abdullah Shafique was the top scorer with 61, but received limited support.
In response, England reached 112 for two by the close of play. Opener Ben Duckett was dismissed for 15, and Emilio Gay contributed 33 before falling. At stumps, Joe Root, returning to the Test captaincy, was unbeaten on 37, alongside Jordan Cox, who made his first Test innings at No. 3.
The day began with rain causing a two-hour and fifteen-minute delay. Despite initial struggles from Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson, the performances of Robinson and Tongue, who combined for 10 wickets, put England in a commanding position. Robinson's bowling displayed skill and control, while Tongue's pace and hostility proved effective.
Robinson's resurgence this summer has seen him claim 12 wickets in two Tests. The day was considered a much-needed positive for English cricket, offering a strong start to the series under Root's captaincy.