Rain frustrates England's bid for Pakistan Test series win

England's push for a series-clinching win over Pakistan was halted by rain on Saturday, with no play before lunch on the third day of the second Test at Lord's.

Conditions had started to ease, however, with the umpires planning an inspection at 1:15 pm local time (1215 GMT) provided there was no further rain.

England, bidding to go 2-0 up in a three-match series, are in a commanding position at 81-3 in their second innings.

Their overall lead of 261 is more than Pakistan have managed in three completed innings so far this series.

Pakistan's players appeal unsuccessfully for the wicket of Harry Brook on day three. AP

Pakistan have also never scored more than 234 in the fourth innings of any Test against England in England.

The hosts dismissed Pakistan for a meagre 110 on Friday, with seamer Ollie Robinson returning remarkable figures of 4-11 in just 13 overs.

Under-pressure England opener Emilio Gay will resume on 30 not out, with Harry Brook unbeaten on seven.

Rain interrupts play at the Lord's cricket ground on day three of the second Test match. AP

Gay walked out to bat Friday averaging a lowly 22.50 from his first eight Test innings amid questions over where talented England batsman Jacob Bethell might slot in when he regains fitness.

Brook, meanwhile, is bidding for his first Test century in over a year despite being ranked as the number one batsman in Test cricket.

Agence France-Presse