Lawrence half-century propels England towards victory over Pakistan

LONDON, Aug 29 - Dan Lawrence piloted England into a near-unassailable position against Pakistan on a rain-hit third day of the second test at Lord’s.The 29-year-old, recalled to the test team for the series after a two-year absence following the international retirement of Ben Stokes, struck an unbeaten 50 as England stretched their second innings lead to 357 with three second innings wickets left.Lawrence struck two sixes and six fours in a 66-ball stay as England reached 177-7 when play was called off for the day.Muhammad Abbas took three wickets in the bowler-friendly conditions to take his match haul to seven but even with his contribution Pakistan are in a hopeless position. With two days left in the match, an uneven pitch and an improved weather forecast, particularly for Monday, En