England has opted for a bold strategy as they prepare for a crucial Test match against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, fielding a three-pronged spin attack in response to the pitch conditions. Harry Brook, a key player in the squad, indicated that local groundstaff has actively manipulated the pitch, raking it to promote spin, a move intended to benefit Pakistan’s spinners.
In a shake-up to their lineup, England has recalled Rehan Ahmed, who joins fellow spinners Shoaib Bashir and Jack Leach, while Gus Atkinson returns to the squad. Notably, both Brydon Carse and Matthew Potts have been rested for this match, narrowing England’s fast-bowling options to Atkinson and captain Ben Stokes.
Rehan, who made a memorable debut in 2022 with a five-wicket haul in Karachi, has not played for England since February. Despite a challenging stint in India earlier this year, where he struggled with his bowling average, England remains optimistic about his potential impact in Rawalpindi.
Brook commented on the preparations for the match, saying, “They’ve had the rakes out, the fans, and the heaters on the pitch. Everyone goes and looks at the wicket and says something different… Hopefully, it’s just like any other Pakistani pitch. It’s good to bat on for the first few days and then hopefully, we can get a bit of turn out of it at the back end of the game.”
Historically, Rawalpindi has been known for favoring seamers over spinners, but Brook believes this Test could be different. He recalled the flat pitch during England’s last visit, which allowed for high scoring, suggesting that this match’s conditions may provide an earlier opportunity for spin.
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Brook, who faced difficulties against Pakistan’s spinners in the second Test, acknowledged the significance of Sajid Khan and Noman Ali in this match. He noted, “I’ve spoken to a few of the lads about game plans and how we’re going to go about it. Hopefully, it pays off and I play a big part in the game.”
Rehan Ahmed’s rise in cricket has been notable since his early days as a net bowler at age 11. He enters this Test amidst mixed performances in recent months, but his talent has always drawn the attention of England selectors. With four half-centuries in the County Championship this summer, Rehan has also focused on strengthening his batting, adding depth to England’s lower order.
England’s lineup for the third test is as follows: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Gus Atkinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jack Leach, and Shoaib Bashir
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on how England’s spin-heavy strategy plays out against Pakistan, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing contest in Rawalpindi.
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