England’s cricketers recently went viral for a humble display of teamwork ahead of the third Test against Pakistan. In a video shared widely, the players were seen putting chairs back in place after their team photo, highlighting the camaraderie and positive dressing-room culture fostered by captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
England players carry chairs in Pakistan ahead of 3rd Test in Rawalpindi – Watch Video
England Team Discipline ✓#PakistanCricket #PAKvENG pic.twitter.com/H7jTKYY3y2
— Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) October 23, 2024
With the series tied 1-1, England is eager to regain momentum after Pakistan’s impressive 152-run victory in Multan. England had dominated the first Test, scoring a massive 823-7 on a flat pitch, but the second Test saw Pakistan’s spinners—Nauman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, and Zahid Mahmood—take control on a spinning track.
To prepare for another spin challenge, England has adjusted their bowling line-up, with captain Stokes expressing confidence in spinners Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and Rehan Ahmed, who is returning for this Test. Stokes noted that spin is likely to play an increasingly important role as the match progresses.
Pakistan, led by captain Shan Masood, has decided to stick with the same playing XI, showing faith in their team despite the unpredictable nature of the Rawalpindi pitch, which traditionally favors fast bowlers.
Both teams hope to bat first, knowing that the pitch is expected to deteriorate over the five days, making spin a crucial factor. Pakistan is chasing its first home Test series win since 2021, while England is determined to bounce back from its loss and finish the series on a high note.