LONDON: Despite suffering an innings defeat in the first Test at Headingley, Pakistan could enter the second Test at Lord’s with a psychological edge over England, thanks to a strong recent record at the historic London venue.
Pakistan have won their last three Tests played at Lord’s and The Oval, although the team has not been able to win a Test series in England. The upcoming Lord’s Test will also mark Pakistan’s return to the venue after an eight-year gap.
Pakistan beat England by 75 runs at Lord’s in 2016 and followed that with a 10-wicket victory at The Oval in the same series. Two years later, Pakistan again triumphed at Lord’s, defeating England by nine wickets under captain Sarfaraz Ahmed. Mohammad Abbas took eight wickets in that match and was named player of the match.
Overall, Pakistan have won 13 Test matches in England, with 10 of those victories coming at either Lord’s or The Oval, providing the team with a strong historical record ahead of the second Test.
Pakistan are also expected to make changes to their lineup after their heavy defeat in the opening match. Babar Azam could return after recovering from injury, while wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan could be dropped from the playing XI.
More read, England beat Pakistan by innings and 103 runs in first Test
The changes could provide Pakistan with a fresh start as they look to respond to their disappointing performance at Headingley and level the series at Lord’s.
