Pakistan Tests New Lineup in Multan

In the second Test match between Pakistan and England at Multan, Pakistan opted to bat first on a recycled pitch that was heavily scrutinized for its batting-friendly conditions during the first Test. Pakistan made significant changes, notably resting key players Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah, which has been supported by former captain Shahid Afridi to test new talent. The team included three spinners hoping to exploit the altered pitch conditions, which now feature cracks and dry patches. England, having won the first Test by an innings and 47 runs, welcomed back Ben Stokes from injury and included Matthew Potts, while resting Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson. The match is pivotal for Pakistan, who are on a six-Test losing streak and aim to level the series against a strong English side led by Stokes.