After their humiliating defeat by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test at Multan, Pakistan will be looking to bounce back and make a strong statement in the second Test. The team has been reshuffled, with key players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah dropped, which adds an element of unpredictability. On the other hand, England, led by Ben Stokes, is coming into the match with confidence, especially with Stokes returning from injury. The visitors are looking to seal the series by clinching the second Test.
Pitch Report
The Multan Stadium pitch typically offers a good batting track, especially in the first two days. Pace bowlers may get some help early on, but spinners are expected to come into play later in the match, which could play into the hands of both teams’ spinners. The dry conditions could assist spinners more as the match progresses, and teams that bat first will have an advantage if they put up a high score.
Weather
With temperatures hovering around 27.8°C and 42% humidity, the weather looks favorable for cricket. The playing conditions are expected to be comfortable for the players, with no major disruptions expected due to weather.
Match Prediction
While Pakistan is looking to bounce back with a revamped squad, England’s strong batting lineup and the return of Ben Stokes make them the favorites for this match. England’s bowling attack, including both pace and spin, looks balanced, and they are likely to dominate in Multan. England are likely to win the 2nd Test and seal the series 2-0, given their overall balance, depth, and form. Pakistan may give them a tougher fight than the previous match, but the visitors’ experience and tactical strengths should see them through.
Predicted Result: England to win by 150-200 runs or possibly an innings if Pakistan fails to capitalize on their first innings.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan
Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (C), Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Aamer Jamal, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Zahid Mahmood
England
Zak Crawley, BM Duckett, Ollie Pope, JE Root, HC Brook, Ben Stokes (C), JL Smith (wk), MJ Potts, BA Carse, MJ Leach, Shoaib Bashir