Pakistan Hosts England in Test Series Opener

Pakistan's cricket team faces England in a crucial three-Test series starting in Multan, with the hosts struggling after losing five consecutive Tests and suffering a humiliating defeat against Bangladesh. England, buoyed by a previous 3-0 clean sweep in 2022, enters the series with a new pace attack and without their captain Ben Stokes due to injury. Pakistan's captain Shan Masood is under pressure to turn the team's fortunes around, emphasizing the need to overcome recent failures. The series comes amid ongoing instability within Pakistan cricket, with changes in leadership and management. England's coach, Brendon McCullum, aims to refine their aggressive 'Bazball' approach after a disappointing series in India earlier this year. The matches will be played in extreme heat, with both teams needing to adapt to challenging playing conditions.