By Sam Hathaway
July 27 2006

Steve Harmison recored his best ever test figures today after scaring the Pakistan bowlers to death with his awesome pace and bounce. The Durham star looked back at his best as he ended up with 6-19.

Harmison was the pick of the bowlers as England completely dominated the first day at Old Trafford. Monty Panesar supported Hamison well by ending up with 3-21 after making Yousuf edge a spinning ball to Jones behind the stumps in his first over. Pakistan didn't look too bad and were on a score of 90-2 but then Panesar and Harmison struck and suddenly the visitors were looking shakey. Panesar was looking very lively and harmisons sheer presence was really putting Pakistan on the backfoot.                                                               

Pakistan were eventually and convincingly bowled out for 119 and England knew they couldn't let their brilliant bowling perfromance be taken advantage of and were set to build a strong 1st innings.

Strauss made 42 but on the way to this the England captain was dropped several times and was eventually caught by keeper Akmal.

Cook looked in good nick again but was patient in his run scoring. The left hander looked comfortable and Pakistan never really troubled him.

Trescothick was the only England batsmen to under perform. He managed 5 and was caught again by Akmal.

Kevin Pietersen was also looking his usual self as he ended the day not out on 38 and England fans will hope he can continue to make a good partnership with Cook.