‘Blown away and hammered’: Ex-England captain says Pakistan lack ‘spirit’ after embarrassing defeat

Pakistan's current Test side suffered a comprehensive defeat against England at Headingley, losing a 1-0 series lead after being dismissed for 171 in their first innings and 135 in the second. England completed an innings-and-103-run victory in under three days. Former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern over Pakistan’s lack of confidence and tactical shortcomings, calling their performance timid and lacking the usual spirit and fight. He noted tactical deficiencies and a disparity in skill levels between the teams. England’s disciplined pace attack and strong batting, led by Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue, dismantled Pakistan’s lower order. Vaughan criticized Pakistan’s decline in intensity, especially given their traditionally aggressive identity. The defeat marks a new era for England under returning captain Joe Root, following the retirements of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum. Pakistan will regroup before the second Test at Lord’s, while England aims to maintain momentum in the series.