Taylor rues not scoring more

Sharjah - Recalled England batsman James Taylor Tuesday showed disappointment at not kicking on in his first Test in three years but still enjoyed the first part of the innings.

The 25-year-old top scored with a career best 76 in an innings of 303 which gave England an invaluable 72-run lead over Pakistan's first innings total of 234.

Taylor, overnight 74, managed to add just two before he fell caught behind to paceman Rahat Ali.

"I was excited to get out there. I loved every second of it yesterday ... not so much today," Taylor said. "It was really enjoyable."

Pakistan, leading the series 1-0, fought back by scoring 146-3 at close on the third day, leading by 74 runs with seven wickets intact.

Taylor believed England were in a good position.

"It's a must-win game for us, and I knew that. I felt really good at the crease. It was just disappointing not to kick on today - but that happens.

"We're in a good position," said Taylor who lost his place in the side after playing only two Tests against South Africa in 2012.

Taylor hoped the knock will keep him in the frame for a place on England's next tour to South Africa, starting in December.

"I scored a few runs at the World Cup on the pitches in Australia and there's quite a lot of seam bowled in England," said Taylor of his performance in the 2015 World Cup.

"I back myself against the seamers in South Africa, and I probably prefer a bit more pace on the ball so hopefully the bounce in SA will help me - the pace and bounce from their quick bowlers - and I love playing the bouncing ball as well."

Taylor admitted it was frustrating to be sidelined.

"It's been a frustrating three years, trying to get back in the side," said Taylor, who praised England's new-ball bowlers James Anderson and Stuart Broad.

"That was an outstanding spell, and exactly what we needed," said Taylor of the pacemen who shared six wickets in Pakistan's first innings.

Both have grabbed a wicket each in the second innings.

"They showed a lot of guts and character to bowl the length they did as long as they did. They always bowl well in tandem, and they got their just reward at the end.

"We hope they can do it again in the morning."