Just In: The English skipper, Ben Stokes, has confirmed making one change in the Rawalpindi test squad ahead of Multan Test, commencing on 9 Dec. Being sidelined during the first test Mark Wood is set to return to England’s test line-up.
The ace pacer Mark Wood will replace injured all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who is ruled out of the remainder of the test series against Pakistan and traveled back to England to start the rehabilitation process.
Perhaps, English captain Ben Stokes expects fireworks and flair performance from his spearhead pace bowler as the touring team attempts to increase their chances of bagging the 3-match series, which they already lead by 1-0.
It is pertinent to mention that Mark Wood was unavailable for selection during the first test match due to injury. However, after passing the fitness test, the pacer is ready to join England’s playing eleven for the second test at Multan.
During Pre-match Press Conference, Ben Stokes admitted that the selectors picked Mark Wood after accessing the playing conditions at Multan Cricket Stadium. Because Wood is too good with reverse swings on dry surfaces, he would be exceptional during the second test.
Before the second test, the Pakistan Cricket Team is also anticipating some changes as bowler Haris Rauf has been ruled out due to a knee injury and is likely to be replaced by Mohammad Abbas. However, the news is not confirmed by the team’s management.