Steven Finn reveals Pakistan’s key to victory over England in second Test

Former England pacer Steven Finn believes that Pakistan's chances of a comeback in the second Test of the series depend on the pitch conditions in Multan, urging for a spinning wicket. After facing a crushing innings and 47-run defeat in the first Test, Pakistan desperately needs a change in fortunes.

Pakistan, winless in 11 home Tests since March 2022, continues their losing streak after being thrashed by England despite scoring a massive 556 in the first innings. England's Harry Brook and Joe Root were the stars of the match, sharing a 454-run record-breaking partnership, surpassing the previous best of 411 set by Colin Cowdrey and Peter May 57 years ago.

Finn, speaking to BBC Sport, emphasized the need for Pakistan to create a more spin-friendly surface if they hope to challenge England.

“It looks wet at the moment but over the course of the next three days it will dry and be shaved down,” BBC Sport quoted Finn as saying.

“Getting the ball spinning and moving laterally, I think, is the way Pakistan can beat England – if they can at all. If they play them on ‘shirt fronts’ like they did during this first Test match it is England all the way,” he added.

However, former England captain Michael Atherton does not foresee significant changes in the pitch for the second Test, starting on October 15.

“I don’t see how the pitch in three days (for the next Test) can be much different to what we’ve just had quite frankly,” Atherton said.

Brook, who was instrumental in England’s first Test victory, joked that he would love another batter-friendly pitch, calling the first Test wicket “unreal.”

England may make changes for the second Test, with captain Ben Stokes expected to return from injury. Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who struggled with 1-156, could be replaced by leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed, known for his match-winning debut against Pakistan in 2022.

The venue for the second Test was shifted from Karachi to Multan due to renovation work at the National Stadium. Despite discussions of moving the series to the UAE, the third Test remains scheduled for Rawalpindi from October 24-28. Pakistan is also set to host the Champions Trophy next year, with matches planned for Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.