Rawalpindi, October 23, 2024 – Pakistan has officially confirmed its Playing XI for the highly anticipated third Test against England, scheduled to commence on Thursday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. With the series tied at 1-1 after two thrilling matches, both teams are keen to secure a decisive victory in the final encounter.
The selected squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, comprising Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (Captain), Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain), Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Zahid Mehmood. The team will be looking to build on the momentum gained from their impressive 152-run victory in the second Test after a disappointing loss in the first match, where England claimed a commanding innings and 47-run win.
The excitement builds as the toss is set to take place at 9:30 AM, followed by the first ball bowled at 10:00 AM. Both teams are aware of the stakes involved, and the pressure is palpable as they aim to clinch the series.
Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s head coach for red-ball cricket, expressed confidence in his team’s preparations leading up to the match. In a press conference held on Wednesday, Gillespie emphasized the importance of open communication within the squad, highlighting the robust relationships formed between players and support staff. “We maintain open communication with our players, discussing their games and strategies for improvement. Our support staff has fostered strong relationships, creating a conducive environment for growth,” he stated.
Regarding the fitness of Abrar Ahmed, Gillespie provided an update, mentioning, “There’s still no update, but I’ve been in touch with him, and he’s recovering well.” He acknowledged the challenges Pakistan has faced in recent Test matches but expressed pride in the team’s resilience and progress. “Any win is significant, and we’re doing well as a support staff, focusing on key areas,” he remarked.
Following the defeat in the first Test, Gillespie noted the decision to implement a new selection panel to guide the team’s strategic direction. “As head coach, my focus remains on the players, and I’ll let the selectors do their job. We’ll concentrate on playing our best cricket,” he explained.
In terms of strategy, Gillespie outlined plans to counter England’s spinners, particularly Jack Leach, whose experience poses a significant challenge. “England has young spinners in the early stages of their careers, alongside the experienced Leach, providing them with solid options. Our batters are clear on their plans, and hopefully, we can put England’s bowlers under pressure and post a formidable total,” he articulated.
On the other side, England’s captain Ben Stokes shared his insights about the Pindi Stadium pitch and his team’s final preparations. “The wicket looks good for batting, but it might change as the game progresses. The longer we play, the more spin will come into play,” he noted. Stokes emphasized the importance of adaptability, stating, “Scoring 800 runs on any wicket would be wonderful, but we’ll assess the pitch’s conditions and adjust our strategy accordingly.”
Both teams are set for an exciting contest as they aim for glory in the series finale, making this match a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. As the players take to the field, the anticipation is electric, with the outcome poised to shape the narrative of the series.