Pakistan have won the toss and decided to field first against England at Lord’s. The second Test of the three-match series began on Thursday.
The toss was delayed because of rain at the London venue. Pakistan eventually chose to bowl after winning the toss.
Pakistan made one major change to their playing XI. Babar Azam returned after missing the opening Test at Headingley.
Stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha was left out of the playing XI. Babar also returned to the captaincy for the second Test.
The return of Babar provides Pakistan with an experienced option in the batting lineup. He had missed the first Test because of a finger injury.
Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat in the series opener. England won that match by an innings and 103 runs at Headingley.
Pakistan will now aim to level the series at Lord’s. England, meanwhile, will look to strengthen their position with another strong performance.
The decision to win toss and field first gives Pakistan an early opportunity with the ball. Cloudy conditions at Lord’s could also assist the seam bowlers.
Pakistan Playing XI
Pakistan selected Imam-ul-Haq, Azan Awais and Shan Masood among their top-order options. Abdullah Shafique also retains his place.
Babar Azam returns as captain, with Saud Shakeel joining him in the middle order. Mohammad Rizwan will take responsibility behind the stumps.
Ali Usman, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali and Mohammad Abbas complete the Pakistan lineup.
England Playing XI
England have retained their lineup for the second Test. Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay will open the innings.
Jordan Cox follows them in the batting order. Captain Joe Root and Harry Brook are also included.
Dan Lawrence, wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson complete the main group. Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue provide further pace options.
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan and England have faced each other 93 times in Test cricket. England have won 31 matches, while Pakistan have secured 23 victories.
The remaining 39 Tests have ended in draws. The overall record therefore gives England an advantage.
Pakistan, however, have enjoyed recent success in London. They have won their last three Tests in the English capital.
Their victories include wins against England at Lord’s in 2016 and 2018. Pakistan also defeated England at The Oval in 2016.
The second Test is therefore important for both teams. England can move closer to winning the series with another victory.
Pakistan must respond strongly after their disappointing performance at Headingley. Their decision to win toss and bowl first gives their bowlers the first opportunity.
The team will hope Babar’s return can strengthen its batting. England will aim to maintain the momentum gained from their opening-Test victory.
Pakistan’s decision to win toss and field first could prove important. The opening sessions at Lord’s may provide an early indication of the match’s direction.
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