MULTAN: Pakistan has announced its playing XI for the much-awaited first Test against England, set to commence on October 7 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Led by skipper Shan Masood, the green team is aiming for a strong start in the three-match Test series.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Masood expressed confidence in the lineup, noting that the inclusion of all-rounder Aamer Jamal would provide a significant advantage. “This is our best XI, and we’ve maintained a consistent batting lineup to ensure stability,” said Masood.
He emphasized the importance of strategic play against a formidable England side, which will be captained by Ollie Pope in the absence of star all-rounder Ben Stokes.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s previous Test series against England, Masood acknowledged the challenges ahead but was optimistic about the team’s preparation. “We’ve learned from our past experiences and are ready to face the opposition. Stokes’s absence is notable, but England remains a strong team,” he added.
The Pakistan team will be looking to bounce back from a recent Test series defeat against Bangladesh and will rely on a revamped lineup for the England series. The batting order remains consistent with young talents like Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique at the top, while Masood, Babar Azam, and Saud Shakeel provide experience and solidity in the middle order.
The inclusion of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah in the bowling attack ensures a potent pace unit, with spinner Abrar Ahmad expected to play a key role on Multan’s spin-friendly track.
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England, led by stand-in captain Ollie Pope, has also announced its playing XI. While the absence of Ben Stokes is a setback, the team still boasts a strong squad, including experienced players like Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Chris Woakes. England’s lineup also includes the uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir, adding an element of surprise to the mix.
The first Test match in Multan will run from October 7 to October 11, followed by the second Test at the same venue from October 15 to 19. The final Test will take place in Rawalpindi from October 24 to 28.
Pakistan’s Playing XI
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (Captain), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain), Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Aamer Jamal, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmad.
England’s Playing XI
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (Captain), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.
