For the first time in six attempts, England have won the series-opener in Test cricket. And despite being much the better side for most of ...
For the first time in six attempts, England have won the series-opener in Test cricket. And despite being much the better side for most of last week’s first Test at Old Trafford, Pakistan tasted a chastening defeat that could have (and would have) impacted morale.
Despite a second-innings batting collapse, Pakistan were still favourites to win when they reduced England to 117/5 in pursuit of a target of 277. Only twice before had a target of 200-plus been chased down successfully in Old Trafford’s history.
But a sixth-wicket partnership of 139 between Chris Woakes (84 not out) and Jos Buttler (75) turned the tide as England went 1-0 up in a three-match series on Saturday.
Normally, under those circumstances, one could say — in their home conditions — England can ride the momentum and close out the series win rather comfortably.
But, given the build-up to the second match of the three-Test series, Pakistan must sense renewed hope to stay alive in this series.
A look at the talking points ahead of a crucial encounter in Southampton that starts on Thursday:
Ben Stokes’ absence
That the consensus seems to be that Pakistan are in with a shout of levelling the series (or beyond) is largely down to the fact that England will play...
