Yasir is the best spinner in the world right now. Bar none.
England have always struggled against spin, and Yasir is the pick of the bunch right now. Perhaps most ominously for the hosts, you imagine this pitch will be the least spin-friendly of the entire tour, so Yasir will only thrive more elsewhere.
We've always seen England struggle against spin - and once again - it proves their Achilles heel. Ahead of subcontinent tours this winter, against both Bangladesh and India, it's an ominous sign.
Misbah started pretty sheepishly and Pakistan will be gutted to make only 330+. Woakes hit his lengths well, and the selectors have a big decision once Jimmy is fit. Surely Finn needs to be dropped? The other option, of course is bringing in a more effective spinner for Moeen.
Once again, Vince was poor with the bat - but at least he managed to take a catch today, having shelled FOUR of his previous six chances in an England shirt. Ballance and Hales were poor in their shot selection, but full credit to Yasir. He used variations of spin exceptionally well, and troubled the England batsmen despite the pitch not turning too much.*
I can't believe today is the first time Yasir has taken a wicket outside of Asia. He has five five-wicket hauls in 13 Tests now, and 1967 was the last time a legspinner took a five-wicket haul in the first innings of a Test at Lord's.
Full credit to Cook and Root, with the former breaking records and the latter showing a keen eye and temperament in the elevated position of 3.
I felt for Amir, with the two chances to dismiss Cook being shelled, but I'm pleased he got a wicket - and more pleased the Lord's crowd remained respectful.
Now that carnival is out of the way, we can enjoy the cricket.*