Pakistan to Reuse Controversial Multan Pitch for Second Test Against England
By Saad Nasir | Published Oct 13, 2024 | 1:45 pm
Multan Pitch Test
In a surprising move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to reuse the pitch from the first Test against England for the upcoming second Test at the same venue in Multan. This decision has sparked considerable debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts, given the pitch’s controversial reputation during the initial match.
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The pitch used in the first Test was widely criticized for being excessively flat, earning nicknames such as “highway” and “runway” due to its lack of assistance to bowlers.
The match saw batsmen from both sides dominate, with high scores and minimal challenges from the pitch conditions. Pakistani batters Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood and Salman Ali Agha scored brilliant centuries in the first innings before Joe Root smacked a magnificent double-century and Harry Brook scored a sensational triple-century as England posted 823/7 in their innings.
Critics argued that the lack of bounce and turn made it difficult for bowlers to make an impact, leading to a less competitive and engaging contest.
Despite the criticism, the PCB has opted to give the same pitch another chance, with expectations that it might behave differently in the second Test. The decision is reportedly influenced by the belief that the pitch will offer more assistance to spinners as it wears down, potentially providing a more balanced contest between bat and ball.
In anticipation of the pitch’s evolving nature, Pakistan is set to make strategic changes to their lineup. The team management is expected to include additional spinners in the playing XI, hoping to exploit any turn and bounce that might develop as the match progresses.
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Reportedly, off-spinner Sajid Khan and left-arm spinner Mehran Mumtaz are set to be included in the squad for the second Test. With Noman Ali and Zahid Mehmood as the other two spinners in contention. Abrar Ahmed is unlikely to feature as he recovers from illness which sent him to the hospital during the middle of the first Test.
This tactical adjustment underscores Pakistan’s intent to leverage home conditions to their advantage, especially against a formidable England side known for its aggressive batting approach
