In a gripping finish at Edgbaston, England overcame a tense start to secure an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the third Rothesay Test, completing a 3-0 series sweep. The match unfolded dramatically on the fourth day, with England facing a daunting target of 130 runs after being rocked early by Pakistan's debutant Razaullah.

England's innings began under pressure as they stumbled to 2-2 within the first over. Ben Duckett fell for a golden duck, edging the first ball behind, while Emilio Gay was dismissed leg before. The situation intensified when Joe Root nearly lost his wicket to Mohammad Ali, only to be reprieved due to an overstepping no-ball.

Despite the early jitters, Root found stability alongside Jordan Cox, who scored a composed 59. Their unbroken partnership of 128 runs carried England to victory, with Root finishing unbeaten on 62 as the team crossed the finish line just before lunch.

Root’s successful return to captaincy, following Ben Stokes’ retirement, capped off a turbulent summer for England, who now transition to a white-ball series against Sri Lanka. Despite their triumph, questions remain about the opening pair, as Duckett and Gay have struggled, raising concerns for the upcoming winter tours.

England's resilience was tested throughout the match, particularly when Pakistan fought back after a dismal first innings of 133. With the new head coach Stephen Fleming set to join, the team must address vulnerabilities, especially at the top order, before facing tougher challenges ahead.