With the third and final Test between England and Pakistan just days away, both teams are preparing for a thrilling battle at the Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi. The highly anticipated match, set to begin on Thursday, will determine the winner of the series, currently tied at 1-1.
England batter Harry Brook shared his thoughts on the upcoming Test during a press conference at the Pindi Stadium on Tuesday. Brook, who has been in stellar form with 317 runs in the first Test, is optimistic about the conditions. “I think it’ll be like any other Pakistani pitch — good to bat on for the first few days, and then we can expect turn later in the game,” Brook remarked, expressing his desire to play a key role in the decider. “I’d love to play a big part in this game.”
Acknowledging the challenge posed by Pakistan’s spin attack, Brook emphasized the threat of Sajid Khan and Noman Ali. “Both can play a massive part in their team this week,” he said, while drawing confidence from England’s previous victory in Rawalpindi. “We’ll bring that momentum into this game and put on a good performance.”
On the other side, Pakistan’s vice-captain Saud Shakeel spoke about the team’s morale after their impressive comeback win in the second Test. Shakeel noted that Pakistan would aim to replicate their game plan from that victory, while praising Noman Ali’s experience and crucial role in the team’s success.
Addressing the fitness of pacer Mir Hamza, Shakeel revealed that Hamza is nursing a right gluteal niggle and has missed practice for the past two days, raising doubts about his participation in the match.
Shakeel also commented on the contrasting weather conditions between Multan and Rawalpindi, observing, “It’s hot and humid in Multan, whereas Rawalpindi favors fast bowlers.” Despite the difference, he expects spin to play a role in the match and emphasized the importance of adapting to the conditions.
Both teams conducted rigorous practice sessions at the Pindi Stadium on Tuesday in preparation for the series decider. The series has seen two thrilling Tests so far, with England dominating the first Test, winning by an innings and 47 runs, while Pakistan bounced back in the second Test with a convincing 152-run victory.
With the series on the line, both teams are eager to claim the final Test and secure the trophy, setting the stage for an enthralling encounter in Rawalpindi.