England captain Ben Stokes is on track to make his comeback for the second Test against Pakistan, which is expected to be played on the same Multan pitch as the record-breaking first Test. Stokes, sidelined with a hamstring injury since August, bowled at full speed during a practice session on Sunday in preparation for the upcoming match, scheduled to start on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, preparations were underway to reuse the same pitch from the first Test, which saw remarkable scoring feats. Ground staff repaired the creases and bowlers' footmarks, and large fans were placed at each end of the pitch. Though it’s uncommon to play consecutive Tests on the same surface, there is no rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) prohibiting it.
Pakistan, on the other hand, made some significant changes to their squad, notably excluding former captain Babar Azam and fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah. Although changes were expected, the decision to rest Babar, a major star in Pakistani cricket, has raised eyebrows. Babar hasn’t scored a half-century since December 2022, and the selectors felt it was time to give him and the out-of-form pacemen a break.
England’s bowling consultant James Anderson mentioned that playing on the same pitch would be a first in his long career. He noted that the conditions could vary, but if the same surface is used, it may favour the spinners. Anderson explained that while the cracks that formed towards the end of the first Test may remain, making it harder for Pakistan to handle England’s powerful batting lineup, the uneven bounce and drier conditions could give Pakistan's bowlers a better opportunity this time.
The pitch from the first Test attracted attention for its flat nature, allowing both sides to rack up high scores. Pakistan posted 556 runs in their first innings, but England responded with an impressive 823-7 declared, their highest total since 1938. England’s eventual victory by an innings and 47 runs handed Pakistan an unfortunate record: the largest first-innings total to result in such a defeat.
Playing on the same surface could work to England’s advantage, particularly for managing Stokes’ return. With spinners Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and part-time bowler Joe Root expected to handle the bulk of the bowling, Stokes could ease back into the team without the pressure of heavy bowling duties. Anderson remarked that Stokes looks in excellent shape, having worked hard on his fitness, and is likely to be ready for the game.
It is expected that Stokes will replace Chris Woakes in the lineup, while England will also monitor the condition of pace bowlers Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse after their exertions in the heat during the first Test. Matthew Potts remains on standby should any changes be needed.
Pakistan, after their first-Test loss, has also revamped their selection panel, bringing in former international umpire Aleem Dar. Abrar Ahmed, who was ill during the first Test, has been left out of the squad, but Pakistan still boasts four spinners: Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Zahid Mehmood, and uncapped player Mehran Mumtaz.
With the potential of an intriguing match on the same challenging pitch, the stage is set for an exciting second Test between England and Pakistan.