England is preparing for the possibility of more challenging pitches in the remaining two Tests of the series against Pakistan, following the hosts’ surprising loss in the opening match despite their initial strong batting performance in Multan. The dramatic turn of events has led to widespread speculation that Pakistan may now offer “result wickets” that could be more conducive to dynamic play, as they strive to regain momentum in the series.
England triumphed over Pakistan in the first Test in Multan, a match characterized by a pitch that heavily favored batsmen. Despite posting an impressive 556 runs in their first innings, Pakistan could not capitalize on the batting-friendly conditions and succumbed to a resolute England side. This defeat now places immense pressure on the home team to adjust their strategy, potentially opting for pitches that deliver more pronounced outcomes, be it through more grass cover or turn.
Chris Woakes, England’s acclaimed all-rounder, expressed his expectations that the surfaces for the next Tests, likely in Multan and Rawalpindi, might lean towards encouraging results, thus forcing a more definitive contest between bat and ball. “There was talk about green surfaces,” Woakes noted in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, reflecting on the pitch at Multan post-England’s victory. “Perhaps it had a slight green tinge on the first day, but progressively improved. The ball’s in their court. In a series that’s as short as three matches, losing the first definitely pushes them to create result-oriented pitches, whether they favor seamers or spinners. Time will tell.”
The pressure on the home team to overturn its fortunes may see them prepare more bowler-friendly wickets, which could drastically alter the series’ complexion. While Pakistan’s team strategists weigh their options, Woakes feels assured by the backing of his team’s leadership, which includes captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. Despite managing only two dismissals in the Multan Test, Woakes’ contributions were pivotal, claiming the wickets of the formidable Babar Azam in the pivotal first innings and removing Abdullah Shafique during the second innings—a player who notched up a century in the initial innings.
Woakes underlined the importance of collaboration in such scenarios, where holding the fort is as significant as making breakthroughs.
. “On such placid tracks like in the first Test,” Woakes elaborated, “a bowler has to successfully anchor one end and collaborate with his partner at the opposite end.”
The team ethos of vigilance and mutual support seems to be Woakes’ focus. He acknowledged that he hadn’t anticipated playing such a role for England again, admitting, “I probably didn’t think I was going to get another opportunity to do this. In a way, I’d probably given up on it.” Yet, with robust confidence bestowed by his team leaders, Woakes feels a renewed sense of capability and contribution to England’s cricketing success. “The support from Ben and Brendon makes you feel incredibly empowered. Going out there and winning games for England feels well within reach when you’re confident that the dressing room stands behind you. I’m not going to average 25 with the ball in these conditions—but then, few would.”
Reflecting on his method during the Multan match, Woakes expressed gratitude for making critical moves when the pitch offered little assistance. “Thankfully, in this Test match, I’ve been able to secure key wickets with the new ball on a track that offered nearly nothing. I’m pretty pleased that I could make a contribution here,” he said. “There are moments in such conditions when you have to play more defensively, working to benefit your teammates at the other end.”
As England and Pakistan prepare for an engaging continuation to their series, the anticipation of more competitive and unpredictable pitches adds a layer of excitement and intrigue, promising cricket enthusiasts a spectacle where tactics and adaptation will be crucial in determining the overall victor. The readiness of both teams to adapt and perform under these evolving conditions will be critical in the remaining clashes in Multan and Rawalpindi.
