England Turn to Rehan Ahmed for Series Decider Against Pakistan
England have turned to Rehan Ahmed as one of three frontline spinners for the crucial third Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi, a selection that reflects the conditions and the spin-friendly nature of the surface. Ahmed, who made his Test debut in Pakistan two years ago, is joined by Gus Atkinson in the side, as Matthew Potts and Brydon Carse make way. With Pakistan having levelled the series 1-1, this match is expected to be decisive in what has been an intriguing contest between two competitive sides.
Rehan Ahmed Returns to Lead Spin Attack
At just 20 years old, Rehan Ahmed returns to the England squad, hoping to replicate his early success on the international stage. His five-wicket haul on debut in Karachi, where he claimed 5-48, made him the youngest Englishman to achieve such a feat in Test cricket. Since then, Ahmed has won four Test caps, with his last appearance coming against India earlier this year.
As England opt for a spin-heavy attack, Ahmed is expected to play a key role alongside Shoaib Bashir and Jack Leach. England’s decision to field three spinners is unsurprising, given the conditions in Rawalpindi. With the pitch likely to offer little assistance to seamers in the early stages, Ahmed’s inclusion provides balance and adds to England’s spinning options.
Harry Brook, who has enjoyed a breakthrough year with England, praised Ahmed’s all-round abilities. “He’s an outstanding cricketer,” said Brook. “It’s not just his bowling, but his batting and fielding. He’s a young lad so he has a lot of time to come.”
Conditions in Rawalpindi Favour Spin
The decision to play three spinners comes on the back of Pakistan’s success in the second Test, where Noman Ali and Sajid Khan shared all 20 English wickets between them. The duo’s dominance on the reused Multan pitch played a decisive role in Pakistan’s victory, levelling the series.
England’s preparation in Rawalpindi has been a talking point, with some unusual measures being taken to ensure the pitch is ready. Large industrial fans were employed at either end of the strip in an attempt to dry it out, while patio heaters and windbreaks were also spotted on the ground, though these were removed before the start of training. Despite the peculiarities, England are anticipating conditions that will favour the spinners, particularly as the match progresses.
“It’s interesting and it’s unique,” Brook noted regarding the pitch preparation. “I’d say it will be a good pitch for the first day, two days maybe, then it will start spinning.”
England’s Batting Adjustments
While England’s selection of spinners dominates the headlines, the batting approach will be equally critical. Brook, who registered England’s first triple-century in 34 years during the opening Test, struggled in the second match, scoring just 9 and 16. Pakistan’s spinners exploited Brook’s tendency to play off the back foot, a tactic he plans to reassess heading into the decider.
“I do like to play spin off the back foot,” Brook admitted. “It gives you a lot more time to play the spinning ball; it gives you different areas to play in. I’m not going to say I’m not going to do that. I’ll look to play off the back foot and look to put him under pressure.”
England’s Quest for Another Series Victory
With the series tied at 1-1, England have a chance to secure a second successive series victory in Pakistan. Their triumph two years ago, a 3-0 series win, included one of their most memorable victories, clinching the first Test in Rawalpindi under fading light on the final day.
For Brook, Rawalpindi holds special significance, as it was the venue for his maiden Test century. “It was a very special moment in my career and for the team,” he reflected. “Winning in the last few moments of the game was really good. The memory will live with me forever.”
As England gear up for the final Test, the anticipation is palpable. With both teams striving for dominance, this decider promises to be a spectacle for cricket fans.