2 stars return as Pakistan announce playing XI for 1st Test vs England

Pakistan cricket fans are buzzing with excitement as the team gears up to face England in a three-match Test series. The first match is set to take place at Multan Cricket Stadium, starting Monday, October 7. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a pace-heavy squad for this important fixture, with star left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi returning to the lineup after being dropped for the second Test against Bangladesh.

Return of Shaheen Shah Afridi

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the first Test is the return of Pakistan’s pace sensation, Shaheen Shah Afridi. After being dropped for the second Test against Bangladesh in August-September, Afridi is back in the squad, and his inclusion signals Pakistan’s intent to dominate England with a pace-heavy approach. Shaheen’s ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his sharp bouncers, makes him a lethal weapon, especially in Pakistani conditions.

Alongside Shaheen, pacer Naseem Shah and fast-bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal have also been brought back into the fold. Naseem, who was dropped for the second Test against Bangladesh, has shown immense potential with his raw pace and ability to extract bounce from even the most unresponsive surfaces. Aamir Jamal’s return after missing the red-ball series against Bangladesh due to injury is another positive for Pakistan.

With Shaheen, Naseem, and Jamal leading the charge, Pakistan will be banking on early breakthroughs to put pressure on the English batting lineup. However, the inclusion of Abrar Ahmed as the lead spinner provides balance, especially in conditions that may assist spinners as the match progresses. Salman Ali Agha could also be used as a part-time off-spinner as and when needed.

Three-Match Test series against England

The three-match Test series against England is crucial for Pakistan, not just in terms of rankings but also as a platform to regain their form in the longest format of the game. The first Test, scheduled to be held at Multan Cricket Stadium, will be a key match to set the tone for the series. A win here would provide Pakistan with the momentum they need to tackle England, who are coming off a successful summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

Pakistan’s concern

While the bowling looks solid, Pakistan’s batting has been a cause for concern, especially with captain Babar Azam struggling for runs. The star batter hasn’t scored a half-century in his last 16 Test innings, and his form will be under the spotlight. Pakistan needs Babar to step up and lead from the front if they are to have any chance of winning the series.

England also announced it playing XI in which there was no place for Ben Stokes. The star all-rounder is still recovering from a hamstring tear. In his absence, Ollie Pope will continue to lead England. Zak Crawley and Jack Leach are back in the playing XI after missing the last series against England, and pacer Brydon Carse will make his debut.

Pakistan’s playing XI for the 1st Test against England: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (C), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.