As England returns to Pakistan, where they dominated in their last series, they are aiming for another 3-0 victory in the first Test at Multan International Cricket Stadium. Despite Pakistan's struggles at home, having lost their last ten Tests, England is looking to capitalize on their current form, having won five of their last six home Tests this summer. With both teams seeking a strong start to the series, we are backing England to claim victory!
Tournament: England Tour of Pakistan, 2024
Format: TestVenue: Multan International Cricket Stadium, Multan City, PakistanToss Prediction: To BatWeather: 29.1°C | Overcast
PAK vs ENG Match Prediction & Analysis
The anticipation surrounding the start of this Test series is palpable, especially given England's previous success in Pakistan, where they secured a 3-0 series win. With Pakistan's recent poor home record, their coach, Australian Jason Gillespie, has a significant challenge ahead.
Despite the absence of captain Ben Stokes, England is set to continue their aggressive approach, known as "BazBall," which has brought them success since its inception in 2022. This match is crucial for both teams, as they look to improve their standings in the World Test Championship, with Pakistan currently in eighth and England in fourth.
TEAMS PREVIEW
Pakistan Preview
The Pakistani side boasts immense talent but has struggled to translate that into success at home, last winning a Test match there in February 2021. Babar Azam's performance has dipped below his usual standards, but with solid support from Abdullah Shafique and captain Shan Masood, the batting lineup has the potential to score heavily. Saud Shakeel's impressive average of 56.30 from his 23 Test innings adds depth to the batting.
On the bowling front, the pace duo of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah can generate serious speed, while Abrar Ahmed will spearhead the spin attack, having previously troubled England in their last encounter.
Pakistan Predicted Playing XI:Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
England Preview
England arrives in Pakistan with heightened expectations, although they are not at full strength. The return of opener Zak Crawley, who missed the Sri Lanka series due to injury, provides a boost. With Joe Root in excellent form, the top order looks promising. However, the middle order, featuring Jamie Smith and Chris Woakes, raises some concerns about depth.
Captain Ollie Pope will welcome back left-arm spinner Jack Leach, making his first appearance since earlier this year, and his partnership with Shoaib Bashir will be vital.
England Predicted Playing XI:Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir
Weather Conditions
The weather forecast indicates exceptionally hot conditions for the Test, especially on day one, with temperatures expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius. This heat could lead to fatigue among players, and no rain is predicted throughout the five days.
PAK vs ENG Pitch Report
The pitch at Multan is expected to favor spinners, but we anticipate that pacers will find some assistance as well. A par first innings total is expected to be around 310.
Toss Prediction
Given the intense heat, we expect both captains to opt for batting first at the toss, as the pitch is likely to deteriorate over the course of the Test.
PAK vs ENG Winning Prediction
Although England enters this series with superior form, their lack of full strength might pose challenges. Nevertheless, we believe they possess enough quality to secure a victory in Multan.
We are backing England to win!
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