England and Pakistan have played each other in 33 games across formats since the start of this decade. For Pakistan, this is the second-most they have played an opposition during this time. The two teams have faced each other in all World Test Championship (WTC) cycles so far, with their latest red-ball series played in England in August and September. But despite all their meetings, the last time Pakistan hosted England for an ODI series was back in 2005, when Pakistan won the five-match series 3-2.
This tri-series clash in Rawalpindi will therefore be their first ODI series in Pakistan since then. And in addition to being two teams who often meet each other, England and Pakistan are, at least in the present era, two sides cut from the same cloth. Off-field chaos dogs them both with a similar frequency, as does the decline in form on the field. They might tackle their issues in different ways, but for both, the approach is equally chaotic.
Both teams also come off series wins against the same opponent, who is also the third team in this tri-nation series, Sri Lanka. But unlike England, Pakistan’s plight in multi-national tournaments accounts for a forgettable story of its own. The last ODI World Cup saw Pakistan being eliminated prematurely, and so did the ODI World Cup before that. England, however, made the semi-final of one (2023) and won the other (2019).
Less than 12 months out from the next edition of the ODI World Cup, where Pakistan and England are set to compete in separate groups, they have the chance to set the tone for how things might turn for them in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Team Overview
Pakistan’s combination in the first ODI worked well, with Saad Baig handed his debut to keep the wickets and Arafat Minhas the sole spinner in the side. But there’s no guarantee that they won’t look to experiment more, especially with their wicket-keeping and spin options. They can slot in Ghazi Ghori to take the gloves or bring in Abrar Ahmed in Minhas’ stead, with Sufiyan Moqim currently ill.
With the surface likely to be pace-friendly, their three-pace attack, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, might go into the second game without any tweaks.
England, meanwhile, will also have to follow Pakistan’s playbook. Despite having many injuries affecting their camp, they might have almost a similar playing XI facing Pakistan as they fielded against Sri Lanka last month. Tom Banton and Ben Duckett are certain starters to open, with Joe Root coming in at the first drop and Harry Brook at his usual No. 4 spot.
With Adil Rashid fit, he is likely to take up the spin duties, with Will Jacks and Liam Dawson supporting him as spin all-rounders.
Weather and pitch report
Weather is very likely to remain pleasant throughout the game, with dew expected to have an impact later in the game. Pakistan are eyeing pace-friendly surfaces for the series, and this game should see a similar one dished out.
Where to Watch
- Pakistan: PTV Sports, Tapmad, Tamasha and PCB Live.
- UAE and Middle East: Cricbuzz (TV and digital).
- Sri Lanka: Dialog, PEO TV and Siyatha TV.
- UK and Ireland: Sky Sports and NOW.
- Bangladesh: T Sports and Tapmad.
- Australia: Fox Sports (TV and digital).
- North America: Willow TV (TV and digital).
- Caribbean and Europe: PCB Live.
- Africa: PCB Live.
- Other regions: Sports Central / Sports TV, depending on the region.
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