England’s men’s cricket team faces a crucial Test match in Rawalpindi, marking a significant moment not just for the ongoing series against Pakistan but also for evaluating Ben Stokes and his team’s capabilities in Asian conditions. After playing 17 Tests in Asia over the past four years, this will be their last appearance in the region for over two years, with their next Test tour not scheduled until February 2027 in Bangladesh. Their white-ball teams will return sooner for events like next year’s Champions Trophy and the T20 World Cup in 2026.
Under Stokes’ leadership, England’s record in Asia stands evenly at five wins and five losses, including one victory achieved under Ollie Pope’s captaincy. Despite their struggles against India earlier this year, a second consecutive win in Pakistan would enhance their overall subcontinental record.
The Rawalpindi Test is particularly memorable, as it was the site of one of England’s greatest victories two years ago, where they posted a staggering 506 for 4 on the first day. However, this time, they anticipate a different challenge, as reflected in their team selection.
The lineup has changed dramatically; Rehan Ahmed returns as one of three primary spinners, with Stokes supporting as the second seamer alongside Gus Atkinson. The Pakistan groundstaff have worked diligently to prepare a pitch that favors spin, with Stokes noting that “a few rakes” and heaters have been employed in the process.
“It looks like it will be a pretty decent wicket for the first couple of days,” Stokes commented. “There’s not much grass to hold it together, so we expect spin to come into play as the match progresses. We have weighed our options carefully to determine who will be effective as the game unfolds.”
Stokes has also acknowledged the preparations, saying, “It’s obvious that a few rakes have been used… We can make educated guesses about where the Pakistan spinners will operate from.” He pointed out that while both ends have been raked, there are specific areas that seem more suited for spin.
While the grass was trimmed short in the previous Test in Multan, Rawalpindi only has three pitches cut across the square. Stokes admitted that the lush outfield and lack of square preparation may hinder their ability to achieve reverse swing.
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Pakistan’s unique pitch preparation has drawn attention, especially their decision to reuse the same pitch in Multan, which is unprecedented. However, Stokes has opted not to criticize, offering a straightforward perspective: “It’s good, innit?”
Brendon McCullum previously noted that the toss could significantly sway the match, citing a “65-35” advantage to Pakistan. Stokes reiterated the importance of the toss, saying, “In the subcontinent, the toss carries more weight than anywhere else. But I believe conditions won’t be as extreme as they progress; it will start as a day-one wicket.”
Traditionally, England has struggled to adapt to overseas conditions, often questioning why their medium pacers fail on dry, grassy pitches. This year, however, they appear more open to adjustments, as shown by the inclusion of Rehan as a third spin option, who they hope will generate breakthroughs even on a flat pitch.
“Rehan brings a free spirit and a desire to change the game every time he bowls, which is a significant advantage for us this week,” Stokes said, downplaying any concerns about Rehan’s underwhelming season with Leicestershire. “Leg-spinners have a unique talent for breaking open a match… It’s better to have one and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
This decider also offers Stokes a pivotal opportunity to alter perceptions about his batting in Asian conditions. His average in Asia is 27.22, the lowest among all continents, with just one century scored on a Rajkot pitch eight years ago. He has yet to hit a fifty in eight innings in Pakistan. Despite a poor dismissal in Multan, he managed to be the top scorer in England’s second innings, finding success with sweeps and reverse sweeps. With the series at stake, he is eager to break a 16-month drought without a Test century.
The ultimate measure of the McCullum-Stokes partnership will depend on their performance in upcoming series against India and Australia, but this week’s match will play a crucial role in shaping their reputation in Asia. When asked about the importance of winning, Stokes replied succinctly: “Very.” While England aims to entertain, their focus remains steadfast on securing victory.
