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England Reinforces Squad with Rehan Ahmed and Gus Atkinson for Crucial Third Test
In a strategic move, England has opted to include three frontline spinners in their lineup for the third Test match against Pakistan, making significant adjustments to their squad. Rehan Ahmed, who has been sidelined for a considerable period, returns to the XI, alongside Gus Atkinson, who also makes his comeback. These two players replace fast bowlers Brydon Carse and Matthew Potts, aiming to bolster England’s spin attack on a pitch that may favor slower bowlers.
Rehan Ahmed: A Comeback to Remember
Rehan Ahmed, who last featured for England in India, brings fresh energy to the squad after missing out on the entire English summer. Ahmed made a memorable Test debut in Karachi in December 2022, where he showcased his talent by taking five wickets in the third innings. His exceptional performance played a vital role in England achieving a historic 3-0 series whitewash against Pakistan, marking their first clean sweep at home in Test cricket. Throughout his career, Ahmed has claimed 18 wickets in just four Tests, boasting an average of 34.50. He joins fellow spinners Jack Leach, the current leading wicket-taker in the series with 14 wickets, and Shoaib Bashir.
Gus Atkinson’s Crucial Role
Gus Atkinson returns to the squad after contributing significantly to England’s dominant victory over Pakistan in the first Test. He took four wickets for 136 runs on a pitch that was not particularly conducive to fast bowling, demonstrating his skill in utilizing reverse swing. Atkinson’s ability to deliver at speeds in the high 140s will pose a challenge to the Pakistani batsmen, particularly in conditions that might not favor seamers as much as the previous Test.
In addition to Atkinson, England’s captain Ben Stokes also returns, having played in the last Test after a nine-week break. He bowled ten overs across both of Pakistan’s innings, helping to stabilize the bowling unit.
Pitch Preparation for Spin Success
In anticipation of the third Test, Pakistan’s groundstaff has undertaken significant measures to alter the Rawalpindi pitch, which has historically favored seamers over spinners. To emulate the conditions seen in Multan, they have implemented industrial fans and gas heaters to dry out the surface. By employing windbreakers along the pitch, they aim to create a spin-friendly environment, reassuring England that the conditions will support their three-spinner strategy.
England’s Playing XI
The confirmed England XI for the match is as follows:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith, Gus Atkinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jack Leach, and Shoaib Bashir.
