England XI for the second test sees a couple of changes as they look to seal the series in the second test at Multan.
England XI name their side for the second test at Multan, with a couple of changes in the playing 11.
For starters, Ben Stokes makes his way back into the playing 11, thereby resuming his duties as the skipper. Stokes was out of the side since suffering a hamstring tear in August. He is fit enough since stepping up his recovery in recent days. A further positive in his inclusion is that he will be bowling in the test.
Bowling coach James Anderson expects Stokes to “contribute a decent amount with the ball”. He is to be England’s third seam-bowling option for this test.
England is preparing itself for a low-scoring venue compared to the first test. Pakistan have taken the unusual decision of using the same strip for the second test that was in use for the first. The pitch has been heavily watered but has dried out in the sun during two practice days. Expect spinners of both teams to have a say in the contest.
Apart from Ben Stokes replacing Chris Woakes. The other change sees Stokes’ Durham team-mate Matthew Potts taking the place of the rested Gus Atkinson.
Following his recovery from a dislocated thumb suffered on the second evening of the first Test, Ben Duckett continues to hold the top spot in the order. Jamie Smith will drop back to No. 7. That will consequently see Stokes resume his preferred position at No. 6.
Shoaib Bashir had a quiet first Test, returning match stats of 1 for 156. England has persisted with the same spinners, Jack Leach and Bashir. Rehan Ahmed is the second spin option in their lineup. England Under-19s and Warwickshire legspinner Tazeem Ali has been bowling in the nets this week while on vacation in Pakistan.