Pakistan has announced an unchanged squad for the third and final Test match against England, set to begin on October 24 in Rawalpindi. This decision follows their impressive 152-run victory in the second Test in Multan, which allowed Pakistan to level the series 1-1. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the continuation of the same XI in a recent press release.
The second Test saw a commanding performance from Pakistan, led by captain Shan Masood, where the team delivered in all facets of the game. The spin duo of Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan played a decisive role, systematically dismantling England’s batting lineup. Their exceptional bowling was instrumental in securing the much-needed win for Pakistan, reigniting the team’s hopes in the series.
With the series finale looming, the Pakistan management has directed groundskeepers in Rawalpindi to prepare a pitch that mirrors the conditions seen in Multan, where spinners thrived. Although Rawalpindi traditionally offers a more batting-friendly surface, curators are reportedly using pedestal fans and heaters to ensure the pitch dries out quickly, aiming to make it more spin-friendly. This approach suggests that Pakistan will once again rely heavily on their spinners to challenge England.
The series has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with England dominating the first Test, winning by an innings and 47 runs, before Pakistan made a remarkable comeback in the second Test. Both teams now stand on equal footing, and the third Test promises to be a high-stakes decider.
Pakistan’s unchanged lineup includes key figures like Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, and Shan Masood, who have all played vital roles throughout the series. The team is banking on its spin attack, spearheaded by Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan, to clinch the series and secure a memorable victory at home.
Here is Pakistan’s playing XI for the third Test:
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (C), Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel (VC), Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Zahid Mehmood.
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