Pakistan stretched their lead over England past three figures despite Ben Stokes’ best efforts on day two of the first Test.

Stokes removed Asad Shafiq and Sarfraz Ahmed with short balls in the afternoon session at Lord’s and then forced top-scorer Babar Azam to retire hurt after a nasty blow on the forearm.

But not out pair Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf took the tourists to 300 for five – a lead of 116 following England travails with the bat.

Stokes’ pace and aggression was the standout showing for England, while Pakistan saw Azhar Ali, Shafiq and Babar make half-centuries in an innings which put England’s judgement and diligence to shame.

Mark Wood made the initial inroads, following a wicketless first hour, finding Haris Sohail’s edge with a beauty from round the wicket.

James Anderson followed up by pinning Azhar lbw from the Nursery End ending a 136-ball stay for exactly 50.

Shafiq (59) and Babar shared a stand of 84 before Stokes removed the former with a bouncer, one ball after Jos Buttler dropped a tough chance at gully.

Sarfraz then fell to an irresponsible hook from the final ball before tea and Babar departed in pain having compiled an impressive 68no.