What to Expect from Day 1 of PAK vs ENG 2nd Test in Multan?

Jatin∙ Updated: Oct 14 2024, 2:05 PM | 4 Min Read

PAK vs ENG 2nd Test will kick-off on October 15 [Source: @TheRealPCB/x.com]

As Pakistan and England gear up for their second Test encounter in Multan, starting on Tuesday, October 15, all eyes will be on the pitch that has stirred up quite a fuss. England’s victory in the first Test by an innings and 47 runs was as much about their stellar batting as it was about the lifeless Multan pitch, which proved a “bowlers’ graveyard.”

However, with the same strip expected for this Test, Day 1 will likely give us a taste of deja vu but with a few crucial tweaks that could change the game. Let’s dive into what to expect from Day of the PAK vs ENG 2nd Test and the strategic adjustments both sides might bring to the table.

1. Batting Dominance on a Familiar Pitch

The Multan pitch has drawn criticism from cricket veterans, including Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain, for its placid nature. The strip offered limited movement, with only 0.63 degrees of average swing and a scant 2.86 degrees of turn, making it hard for bowlers to get the upper hand.

As the first Test saw an eye-popping 1,599 runs scored for the loss of only 26 wickets, expectations are that Day 1 will once again be a high-scoring affair, with batters holding the cards while bowlers play catch-up.

To give themselves a fighting chance, Pakistan’s ground staff has gone to great lengths to alter the pitch conditions for this game. Industrial fans, additional watering, and drying techniques have been employed, aiming to bring a bit of unpredictability to the surface.

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2. England’s All Guns Blazing Approach vs Pakistan’s Spin Shuffle

Expectations are that England might stick to their tried-and-tested aggressive strategy that served them well in the first Test. Ben Stokes, having returned to full fitness, is expected to provide the backbone for England’s bowling attack. His ability to exploit every inch of movement, however small, could be critical if there’s any early help from the pitch.

Stokes’ return also brings flexibility to England’s approach, with veteran James Anderson hinting at a “spin-heavy” approach if conditions demand it. Young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed could even be in line for selection.

Meanwhile, Pakistan will be looking to avoid a repeat of the first Test's drubbing by mixing things up in their squad. Out-of-form Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, have been dropped.

Instead, the PCB has brought in fresh faces, including Kamran Ghulam and left-arm spinner Mehran Mumtaz. By reshuffling their lineup and introducing a young spinner, Pakistan will hope to turn the tide on this “shocking” strip and put England’s batsmen on the back foot.

3. Batting Paradise or Bowlers’ Redemption?

The Multan pitch might again offer a dream start to the batters. Harry Brook’s triple-century partnership with Joe Root in the first Test shattered long-standing records. With another similar pitch in store, England’s batters could be licking their lips, eager to extend their dominance.

For Pakistan, the story hinges on fightback and rediscovery. Out-of-form batters, like Babar Azam, may have been rested, but the team will still need to conjure up partnerships that can withstand England’s varied attack. 

Kamran Ghulam, a potential replacement for Babar, has shown promise in domestic cricket, and Day 1 will be a litmus test for Pakistan’s revamped batting order.

PAK vs ENG 2nd Test Day 1 Prediction: Runs Galore with a Dash of Caution

With both teams familiar with the Multan conditions and the pitch unlikely to change overnight, Day 1 may mirror the first Test’s high-scoring trend. England is expected to go all guns blazing with the bat if they get to set the tone early.

However, if Pakistan bowls first and can exploit any early moisture or variation in the pitch, we may see a few surprises that put the visiting batters on the back foot.

While England may start the day as favourites, Pakistan’s bowling shuffle and determination to regain control could bring some grit to this Test. By reusing the pitch, the hosts may have tipped their hand – spin will be their best weapon.

For Day 1, we may very well be looking at another epic run-fest or a masterstroke if Pakistan’s new approach strikes gold. Either way, Day 1 will set the stage for a battle that promises to be anything but predictable.

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