Pakistan Chooses to Bat in Multan Test

Pakistan’s captain, Shan Masood, decided to bat first after winning the toss in the opening Test against England in Multan, aiming to break a prolonged winless streak at home that stretches back to 2021. Despite the pitch still holding some green, with temperatures expected to soar to 40°C, England's relatively inexperienced bowling lineup faces a challenging day.

Masood acknowledged the frustration within the team, admitting that although they have been in strong positions, they have consistently failed to convert them into victories, which has caused disappointment within the camp and among Pakistan's cricket supporters. Since taking over the captaincy late last year, Masood has endured five straight defeats, including a 2-0 home series loss to Bangladesh in August.

England, still missing regular captain Ben Stokes as he recovers from a hamstring injury, were once again led by Ollie Pope. Pope noted that he would have also chosen to bat if given the chance, though he hoped to capitalise on the pitch’s early moisture.  

Both sides announced their starting XIs ahead of the match. Pakistan brought back Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, both of whom were rested for the second Test against Bangladesh. All-rounder Aamer Jamal, recovered from injury, returned to the team as well. Abrar Ahmed, who made a sensational debut against England two years ago, was tasked with leading the spin attack, supported by Salman Ali Agha.

For England, Chris Woakes returned for his first overseas Test since March 2022, taking charge of a relatively untested seam attack that included debutant Brydon Carse and Gus Atkinson, who is making only his seventh Test appearance. Jack Leach also made his return, featuring in his first Test since suffering an injury during the India tour last winter, after which he lost his position as England’s top spinner to Shoaib Bashir.

Pakistan XI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Aamer Jamal, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed. 

England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.