Pakistan eye changes for Lord’s Test after heavy defeat

LONDON: Pakistan are considering changes to their playing XI for the second Test against England at Lord’s after a heavy defeat in Leeds exposed several weaknesses in the visitors’ lineup.

The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin on August 27, with Pakistan’s team management expected to finalise the playing XI after assessing conditions in London.

Pakistan suffered a disappointing start to the series, losing the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs. The result has prompted the management to consider adjustments as the team looks to bounce back at the home of cricket.

One of the major possibilities is a rest for wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. His potential absence would open the door for another player to take responsibility behind the stumps while allowing the team management to refresh its batting combination.

The biggest question, however, surrounds Babar Azam. The former Pakistan captain missed the first Test because of a finger injury, but team management remains hopeful that he will recover in time to return for the Lord’s match.

If Babar is declared fit, Azan Awais is reportedly likely to make way. His return would provide Pakistan with considerable experience in the middle order at a crucial stage of the series.

Bowling plans could also change according to the conditions at Lord’s. Sources indicate that Pakistan may consider playing two spinners if the pitch and weather point towards a slower, drier contest.

The management is also reportedly considering young fast bowler Ubaid Shah because of his extra pace. His ability to generate speed could provide Pakistan with a different attacking option against England’s strong batting lineup.

The conditions in London are expected to differ from those encountered in Leeds. Reports suggest a relatively dry and potentially flat surface could be prepared, increasing the possibility of a match in which batting becomes easier as the game progresses.

For Pakistan, the Lord’s Test is more than another fixture in the series. After being comprehensively beaten in Leeds, they need a strong response to regain confidence and keep the series alive.

England, meanwhile, will enter the match with momentum and will be confident of repeating their dominant performance. Pakistan’s final XI could therefore prove crucial as they attempt to turn the tide at one of cricket’s most historic venues.