Preview: England Vs Pakistan at Old Trafford

22nd July (CRICKETNMORE) - After their thumping victory at Lords, Pakistan is ready to take on England in the Second test of the series at Old Trafford starting from Friday. It has been four days since Pakistan beats England at Lords. In this four days, lot has happened in England camp starting from return of Ben Stokes and James Anderson to the team, discussion over Moeen Ali, the two spinner theory, Winning celebration of Pakistan, Saqlain Mushtaq called as a consultant to English spin bowlers etc. 

With the return of James Anderson and Ben Stokes, England has further strengthened its pace attack but the spin dilemma remains the same. The recent performance from Moeen Ali does not does not guarantee him an automatic selection, but lack of options is making it tough for Alastair Cook to take a call.  Since in the last test leg spin of Yasir Shah has done wonder for the Pakistan team, so it is a good move to bring back Adil Rashid. 

As per the first look of the strip at Old Trafford, it looks like somewhat that of sub continental with lot of turn expected on fourth and fifth day. But seeing the bowling standard of both the teams there are genuine doubts that the test will last fifth day.

Fresh from resounding victory at Lords the Pakistan team looks in good shape. The form of the openers might be a problem but on Misbah, Younus they have a stable and experienced middle order, but the longish tail will be an area of concern for the Pakistan team management.

 Will it be another salute of honour by Pakistan team or a revenge by the England team it will get cleared in next four or five days. Also Check Other Pakistan tour of England 2016 News.    

Squad

England (Probables) 1 Alastair Cook (capt), 2 Alex Hales, 3 Joe Root, 4 James Vince/Adil Rashid, 5 Gary Ballance, 6 Ben Stokes, 7 Jonny Bairstow (wk), 8 Moeen Ali, 9 Chris Woakes, 10 Stuart Broad, 11 James Anderson.

Pakistan (Probables) 1 Mohammad Hafeez, 2 Shan Masood, 3 Azhar Ali, 4 Younis Khan, 5 Misbah-ul-Haq (capt), 6 Asad Shafiq, 7 Sarfraz Ahmed (wk), 8 Wahab Riaz, 9 Mohammad Amir, 10 Rahat Ali, 11 Yasir Shah.

Gurfran