On Monday, Pakistan chose to bat first in the opening match of their three-Test series against England at Multan Cricket Stadium, marking another chapter in their historic rivalry.
Captain Shan Masood’s team is under pressure to secure their first Test victory after a disappointing home series against Bangladesh. This series presents a crucial opportunity for them to bounce back.
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England comes into the match with confidence, having swept Pakistan 3-0 in their last series in 2022. Although they will be without key all-rounder Ben Stokes due to a hamstring injury, the depth of their squad and recent form under new captain Ollie Pope make them strong contenders. Pakistan aims to challenge this resilient England side.
The Multan pitch is anticipated to favor batting initially, but spinners are expected to play a significant role as the match progresses. Both teams must maintain focus, especially with the possibility of reverse swing in the dry conditions.
Experienced player Babar Azam will be vital with the bat, supported by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. The return of Shaheen Shah Afridi bolsters the pace attack, while Saud Shakeel will strive to provide stability in the middle order.
For England, Joe Root is close to becoming the country’s all-time leading Test run-scorer and will be a key figure in their batting lineup. Youngsters like Ollie Pope and Harry Brook are expected to make significant contributions, while spinner Jack Leach will look to take advantage of the spin-friendly conditions.
Pakistan Squad
Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper), and Shaheen Shah Afridi, Zahid Mehmood.
England Squad
Ben Stokes (C), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Josh Hull, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.
Test series schedule
- 7-11 Oct – First Test, Multan
- 15-19 Oct – Second Test, Multan
- 24-28 Oct – Third Test, Rawalpindi
