Watch: Laura Wright Performs Pakistan’s National Anthem Ahead of PAK vs ENG 1st Test 2026
Laura Wright sang Pakistan's anthem before the England vs Pakistan 1st Test at Headingley today, August 19, 2026. Captain Joe Root won the toss and chose to bowl. Ollie Robinson took a historic first-ball wicket and removed Shan Masood, leaving Pakistan at 6-2. Rain forced an early lunch with Pakistan at 23-2. This is a WTC 2025-27 series opener.
English mezzo-soprano Laura Wright set a vibrant tone for the start of the England vs Pakistan Test series at Headingley today, August 19, 2026, with a memorable a cappella performance of Pakistan's national anthem. Her powerful delivery preceded a dramatic opening session of the first Test, where England, under returning captain Joe Root, made immediate inroads after opting to bowl first. Is PAK vs ENG 1st Test 2026 Live Telecast Available on PTV Sports?
VIDEO - Laura Wright Sings Pakistan National Anthem
A stunning performance and a beautiful start to this Test series.@thelaurawright sings the national anthem of Pakistan a cappella. pic.twitter.com/zkTiRN60PU
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) August 19, 2026
Early Dominance for England
The decision to bowl first in overcast conditions paid dividends almost instantly for England. Paceman Ollie Robinson delivered a historic moment by dismissing debutant Azan Awais leg before wicket (lbw) with the very first ball of the series. The review upheld the umpire's decision, marking a rare first-ball wicket to open a Test series in England.
Robinson continued his impressive spell, trapping Pakistan captain Shan Masood lbw for just five runs, leaving the visitors reeling at 6-2. Rain then intervened, forcing an early lunch with Pakistan struggling at 23-2 after just 9.4 overs. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique were at the crease, attempting to rebuild the innings against a potent English attack.
Root's Return to Captaincy
Today's match marks a significant moment for England as Joe Root returns for his second stint as Test captain. His leadership follows the departures of Ben Stokes, who retired from international cricket in June 2026, and head coach Brendon McCullum, who stepped down in July 2026, heralding a new era for English red-ball cricket. Pakistan, meanwhile, are without regular skipper Babar Azam, who is sidelined due to a hand injury, with Salman Ali Agha stepping in to lead the side.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 19, 2026 07:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
