As Pakistan looks to redeem themselves after the crushing innings defeat over England in the opening Test, the second game which will once again be played in Multan could see the very same pitch being used as both sides are set to square off on October 15 through to October 19.
A report by ESPNCricinfo has suggested that the same Multan pitch would be used where the track was watered down heavily by the groundstaff and dried subsequently.
The Head Coach of Pakistan’s Test side, Jason Gillespie is reported to have had conversations with the PCB’s head curator. But ICC’s pitch regulations mandate that the best possible pitch and outfield conditions should be maintained with no specifics that mention that the pitch should be fresh or rather unused.
Pakistan have had a disastrous record at home of late and the move to use the same pitch could be an attempt to try something different, considering none of their plans have worked out so far.
The first Test between the two sides saw the bowlers being smacked away for runs with ease. A total of 1599 runs were scored between both sides across both innings with the loss of just 26 wickets, showing just how tough the bowlers had it in Multan.
Considering the pitch has already worn down, it could mean that the second Test could see more cracks and wear-and-tear, meaning more assistance for the spinners.
England still managed to get the win as Pakistan’s batting unit crumbled under the pressure generated by the English bowlers as the hosts were bowled out for 220 runs in the second innings thus suffering defeat by an innings and 47 runs.
Pakistan skipper, Shan Masood has been under fire as he is yet to pick up his first win as the Test captain, making him the first skipper to lose their six first six games.
Questions have been asked from the Pakistan management as well, with reports emerging that the star batter, Babar Azam could be dropped for the second game, a recommendation made by the newly-formed selection committee.
Fans of Pakistan cricket will hope that the Men in Green can come together and finally bring in their best performance and also take the first win in Masood’s captaincy stint which would help keep the series alive, at the very least.
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