The English summer showed it’s miracles once again as rain completely spoiled the second Test match between England and Pakistan at Southampton. After an exciting first Test, the second was anticipated to be another cracking contest.
A total of mere 130 overs were played in the entire Test match. The all-important third Test match between the two sides will be again played at Southampton from Friday onwards.
England will be looking to win the Test match and the series and climb at the second spot in the ICC Test championship. On the other hand, the skilful Pakistan side will be looking to draw their third consecutive Test series in England.
The home side will continue to miss star all-rounder Ben Stokes. They will want skipper Joe Root to fire, who is due for a big score. Pakistan, however, will heavily bank on their top-order to deliver the goods and finish on level terms.
The third and the final encounter of the series will start from August 21 (Friday) at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.
Weather Report
Unfortunately much like the last Test, rain gods are again likely to interfere in the last Test of the series. Thunderstorms are expected on very day and conditions will remain cloudy throughout the Test match.
Pitch Report
The Southampton surface has granted equal contest between bat and ball. Due to the overhead conditions, the ball will seam and swing for the fast bowlers that will make life difficult for all the batsmen.
If the sun makes an appearance and the moisture dries out it will also be a good wicket to score runs if the batters get set.
England vs Pakistan, 3rd Test – Fantasy Tips
It is important to pick trusted and inform players in your playing XI. As far as the hosts are concerned the likes of Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Joe Root are a must in your squad.
From the visitor’s side, Babar Azam and Sham Masood should surely feature in your squad. From the bowling depart, Mohammad Abbas and Shaheen Afridi should also be picked in your team.
Predicted Playing XI
England: Rory Burns, Dominic Sibley, Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Dom Bess
Pakistan: Shan Masood, Abid Ali, Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Mohd Rizwan, Shadab Khan/ Fawad Alam, Yasir Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohd Abbas, Naseem Shah
Match Prediction
England can end up winning the series 1-0 if rain again plays spoilsport in the match. If the conditions dry out and the sun shines Pakistan can surprise everyone and draw the series. However, England is the favourites to win the Test and clinch the series.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
Wicket-keeper: Jos ButlerBatsman: Joe Root, Dom Sibley, Shan Masood, Babar Azam
All-Rounder: Chris Woakes, Shadab Khan
Bowler: Stuart Broad, Mohd Abbas, Shaheen Afridi, James Anderson
Best Captain Picks: Stuart Broad
Best Vice-Captain Picks: Joe Root, Babar Azam