England teenager leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed will be debuting in the third and final Test against Pakistan in Karachi on Saturday, December 17th. At 18 years and 126 days, Rehan will surpass Brian Close (18 years and 149 days) as England's youngest male Test debutant. Other than him, England have also roped in keeper-batsman Ben Foakes in the XI, captain Ben Stokes has confirmed.

Rehan Ahmed was added to England’s squad for the pre-tour camp in Abu Dhabi. With Liam Livingstone getting ruled out of the ongoing series due to a knee injury, Rehan was left as the only leg-spinning option in the squad. Though he had come on as substitutes in the first two matches, the young all-rounder will making his Test debut at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Ahead of the third Test, Stokes in a presser talked about the changes to the squad and how excited are the team management and everyone in the camp is regarding Rehan’s debut.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-eng-3rd-test-live-streaming-how-to-watch-pakistan-vs-england-3rd-test-live-online-app-ott-tv-mobile-543649">PAK vs ENG 3rd Test Live Streaming: How to watch Pakistan vs England 3rd Test live online App-OTT, TV &amp; mobile</a>

"We've been thinking about it," Stokes said. "We can't go into too much detail until me and Baz [Brendon McCullum] have had a look at the wicket.

"When we spoke about having Rehan into the squad, it was more than just bringing him in and integrating him into the squad. We did speak about us having no issues with selecting him if we felt it was the right option. I don't think this is a case of, if he was to play, of giving caps away. We picked him in the squad not just because of his talent, but because we thought it would be a good opportunity to play if we thought it was necessary," Ben Stokes said.

Rehan came into limelight after a stunning Under-19 campaign in February earlier this year. He picked up 12 wickets and helped England reach the finals where they lost to India. Later, Rehan made his first-class debut in Division Two of the County Championship in May for Leicestershire and soon after he picked his maiden five-wicket haul and even scored a hundred against Derbyshire. Not only this, he even trained with England’s white-ball squad during their series with South Africa and India.

England are already leading the 3-match Test series 2-0 and will now aim to clean sweep Pakistan at their home for the first time.

England teenager leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed will be debuting in the third and final Test against Pakistan in Karachi on Saturday, December 17th. At 18 years and 126 days, Rehan will surpass Brian Close (18 years and 149 days) as England's youngest male Test debutant.

England teenager leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed will be debuting in the third and final Test against Pakistan in Karachi on Saturday, December 17th. At 18 years and 126 days, Rehan will surpass Brian Close (18 years and 149 days) as England's youngest male Test debutant. Other than him, England have also roped in keeper-batsman Ben Foakes in the XI, captain Ben Stokes has confirmed. Rehan Ahmed was added to England’s squad for the pre-tour camp in Abu Dhabi. With Liam Livingstone getting ruled out of the ongoing series due to a knee injury, Rehan was left as the only leg-spinning option in the squad. Though he had come on as substitutes in the first two matches, the young all-rounder will making his Test debut at the National Stadium in Karachi. Ahead of the third Test, Stokes in a presser talked about the changes to the squad and how excited are the team management and everyone in the camp is regarding Rehan’s debut. ALSO READ: PAK vs ENG 3rd Test Live Streaming: How to watch Pakistan vs England 3rd Test live online App-OTT, TV & mobile "We've been thinking about it," Stokes said. "We can't go into too much detail until me and Baz [Brendon McCullum] have had a look at the wicket. "When we spoke about having Rehan into the squad, it was more than just bringing him in and integrating him into the squad. We did speak about us having no issues with selecting him if we felt it was the right option. I don't think this is a case of, if he was to play, of giving caps away. We picked him in the squad not just because of his talent, but because we thought it would be a good opportunity to play if we thought it was necessary," Ben Stokes said. Rehan came into limelight after a stunning Under-19 campaign in February earlier this year. He picked up 12 wickets and helped England reach the finals where they lost to India. Later, Rehan made his first-class debut in Division Two of the County Championship in May for Leicestershire and soon after he picked his maiden five-wicket haul and even scored a hundred against Derbyshire. Not only this, he even trained with England’s white-ball squad during their series with South Africa and India. England are already leading the 3-match Test series 2-0 and will now aim to clean sweep Pakistan at their home for the first time.

PAK vs ENG 2022, 3rd Test: Rehan Ahmed set to play in Karachi Test, will be England’s youngest debutant

Upon their return to Pakistan for the first time in 17 years, England first won the T20I series (4-3) and now have clinched the 3-match Test series 2-0 with the final Test scheduled to begin on Saturday, December 17th in Karachi. While the wins in both Rawalpindi and Multan&nbsp;were historic for many reasons, England's new-look Test team will aim to win the final match and clean sweep Pakistan at their home this time.

While England will be upbeat about their team's momentum going forward, Pakistan will like to win the match for ex-skipper Azhar Ali, who announced he is retiring from Tests after this final match of the series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/veteran-pakistan-batter-announces-retirement-from-tests-karachi-game-against-england-to-be-his-last-543628">Veteran Pakistan batter announces retirement from Tests, Karachi game against England to be his last</a>

Ahead of the start of the third Test match in Karachi, we will know more about this game in detail.

So here's everything you need to know about Pakistan vs England 3rd Test -

Where to watch the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test Live App &amp; Live online Channel in India ?

Pakistan vs England 3rd Test can be watched on Sony Sports Network channels in India on TV. The match will also be live-streamed on Sony LIV app and website.&nbsp;

PAK vs ENG 3rd Test: Match Details 
Pakistan vs England 3rd Test 
Date – Saturday, December 17, 2022 
Time – 10:30 AM IST 
Venue – National Stadium, Karachi 
Live – Sony LIV

Where will the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test be held? 
Pakistan vs England 3rd Test will take place in Pakistan on December 17.

When will the Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match start? – Date 
Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match will begin at National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan Dec 17- Dec 21 - 10:30 AM IST

What Time the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match will begin?- Time 
Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match will begin at 10:30 AM IST&nbsp;

What is the venue of the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match? – Venu 
Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match will begin at National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan

PAK vs ENG 3rd Test Test full Squad:

Pakistan Squad: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Azhar Ali, Babar Azam(c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Agha Salman, Naseem Shah, Zahid Mahmood, Mohammad Ali, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shan Masood, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Nauman Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed

England Squad: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope(w), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes(c), Will Jacks, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Keaton Jennings, Rehan Ahmed, Ben Foakes, Jamie Overton

PAK vs ENG Test Series Schedule: 
&nbsp;

Dec 01 – Dec 05 Pakistan vs England 1st Test, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi - England won by 74 runs

Dec 09 – Dec 13 Pakistan vs England 2nd Test, Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan - England won by 26 runs

Dec 17 – Dec 21 Pakistan vs England 3rd Test, National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan

Upon their return to Pakistan for the first time in 17 years, England first won the T20I series (4-3) and now have clinched the 3-match Test series 2-0 with the final Test scheduled to begin on Saturday, December 17th in Karachi.

Upon their return to Pakistan for the first time in 17 years, England first won the T20I series (4-3) and now have clinched the 3-match Test series 2-0 with the final Test scheduled to begin on Saturday, December 17th in Karachi. While the wins in both Rawalpindi and Multan were historic for many reasons, England's new-look Test team will aim to win the final match and clean sweep Pakistan at their home this time. While England will be upbeat about their team's momentum going forward, Pakistan will like to win the match for ex-skipper Azhar Ali, who announced he is retiring from Tests after this final match of the series. ALSO READ: Veteran Pakistan batter announces retirement from Tests, Karachi game against England to be his last Ahead of the start of the third Test match in Karachi, we will know more about this game in detail. So here's everything you need to know about Pakistan vs England 3rd Test - Where to watch the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test Live App & Live online Channel in India ? Pakistan vs England 3rd Test can be watched on Sony Sports Network channels in India on TV. The match will also be live-streamed on Sony LIV app and website. PAK vs ENG 3rd Test: Match Details Pakistan vs England 3rd Test Date – Saturday, December 17, 2022 Time – 10:30 AM IST Venue – National Stadium, Karachi Live – Sony LIV Where will the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test be held? Pakistan vs England 3rd Test will take place in Pakistan on December 17. When will the Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match start? – Date Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match will begin at National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan Dec 17- Dec 21 - 10:30 AM IST What Time the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match will begin?- Time Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match will begin at 10:30 AM IST What is the venue of the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test match? – Venu Pakistan vs England Test 3rd Test match will begin at National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan PAK vs ENG 3rd Test Test full Squad: Pakistan Squad: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Azhar Ali, Babar Azam(c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Agha Salman, Naseem Shah, Zahid Mahmood, Mohammad Ali, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shan Masood, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Nauman Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed England Squad: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope(w), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes(c), Will Jacks, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Keaton Jennings, Rehan Ahmed, Ben Foakes, Jamie Overton PAK vs ENG Test Series Schedule: Dec 01 – Dec 05 Pakistan vs England 1st Test, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi - England won by 74 runs Dec 09 – Dec 13 Pakistan vs England 2nd Test, Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan - England won by 26 runs Dec 17 – Dec 21 Pakistan vs England 3rd Test, National Stadium, Karachi, Pakistan

PAK vs ENG 3rd Test Live Streaming: How to watch Pakistan vs England 3rd Test live online App-OTT, TV & mobile

Veteran Pakistan batter Azhar Ali has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 3rd Test against England in the ongoing series, scheduled to start on Saturday, December 17th, will be his last, the 37-year-old announced. Azhar Ali is Pakistan's fifth-highest run-scorer in red-ball cricket&nbsp;with 7097 runs in 96 games to his name at an average of 42.49.

Ahead of the start of the final Test of England's historic tour of Pakistan, the series that has already been won by England 2-0, Azhar said its been an honour and privilege to represent his country and that to take call on his career was always going to be tough.

"It has been a great honour and privilege for me to represent my country at the highest level. Deciding on when to call it a day is always tough, but, after contemplating deeply, I realised that this is the right time for me to retire from Test cricket," Azhar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-yograj-singhs-advice-helped-arjun-tendulkar-match-his-fathers-ranji-trophy-record-on-debut-543474">How Yograj Singh's advice helped Arjun Tendulkar match his father's Ranji Trophy record on debut</a>

The right-hander, who made his Test debut way back in 2010 against Australia at Lord's adds he enjoyed sharing dressing room with some of the great players over the years, and&nbsp;he feels great calling some of them as his close friends also.

"I have been blessed to share the dressing room with some of the most outstanding cricketers with whom I share a strong bond. I feel much richer by calling these people my friends. I am also blessed to have played under some wonderful coaches to whom I will always remain grateful," Azhar Ali&nbsp;added.

Ali has had a few records to his name like being the first Pakistani batsman to score a triple hundred in a Day/Night Test match, a feat that he achieved against West Indies in 2016. In the same year, he even scored a double hundred against Australia at Adelaide. One year prior in 2015, he notched up his maiden double ton against Bangladesh in Dhaka, while in 2014 he smashed twin centuries&nbsp;in a Test against Australia&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi and helped them win the game as well.

"I retire from international cricket as a fulfilled cricketer who ticked most of the goals he had set for himself. Not many cricketers go on to lead their countries, and that I was able to captain Pakistan is a matter of great pride for me. From being a kid who started as a leg-spinner to becoming a mainstay in the Test batting line-up, I had the loveliest moments of my life that I will cherish forever," Azhar said.

Veteran Pakistan batter Azhar Ali has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 3rd Test against England in the ongoing series, scheduled to start on Saturday, December 17th, will be his last, the 37-year-old announced.

Veteran Pakistan batter Azhar Ali has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 3rd Test against England in the ongoing series, scheduled to start on Saturday, December 17th, will be his last, the 37-year-old announced. Azhar Ali is Pakistan's fifth-highest run-scorer in red-ball cricket with 7097 runs in 96 games to his name at an average of 42.49. Ahead of the start of the final Test of England's historic tour of Pakistan, the series that has already been won by England 2-0, Azhar said its been an honour and privilege to represent his country and that to take call on his career was always going to be tough. "It has been a great honour and privilege for me to represent my country at the highest level. Deciding on when to call it a day is always tough, but, after contemplating deeply, I realised that this is the right time for me to retire from Test cricket," Azhar said. ALSO READ: How Yograj Singh's advice helped Arjun Tendulkar match his father's Ranji Trophy record on debut The right-hander, who made his Test debut way back in 2010 against Australia at Lord's adds he enjoyed sharing dressing room with some of the great players over the years, and he feels great calling some of them as his close friends also. "I have been blessed to share the dressing room with some of the most outstanding cricketers with whom I share a strong bond. I feel much richer by calling these people my friends. I am also blessed to have played under some wonderful coaches to whom I will always remain grateful," Azhar Ali added. Ali has had a few records to his name like being the first Pakistani batsman to score a triple hundred in a Day/Night Test match, a feat that he achieved against West Indies in 2016. In the same year, he even scored a double hundred against Australia at Adelaide. One year prior in 2015, he notched up his maiden double ton against Bangladesh in Dhaka, while in 2014 he smashed twin centuries in a Test against Australia in Abu Dhabi and helped them win the game as well. "I retire from international cricket as a fulfilled cricketer who ticked most of the goals he had set for himself. Not many cricketers go on to lead their countries, and that I was able to captain Pakistan is a matter of great pride for me. From being a kid who started as a leg-spinner to becoming a mainstay in the Test batting line-up, I had the loveliest moments of my life that I will cherish forever," Azhar said.

Veteran Pakistan batter announces retirement from Tests, Karachi game against England to be his last

England is enjoying its&nbsp;cricket, and why they wouldn’t – <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-eng-2nd-test-england-clinch-historic-series-win-after-beating-pakistan-by-26-runs-542239">they just defeated Pakistan in an away Test series</a> on their first visit to the country in 17 years. Captain Ben Stokes and the coach Brendon McCullum reinvented an attacking brand of cricket, that everyone now calls ‘Bazball’.&nbsp;A lot of young players and even some of the veterans have contributed immensely towards making this as a success, and one such player is the youngster named Harry Brook.

The 23-year-old middle-order batter was touted to be the next big thing in English cricket even before he made his Test debut for England. In his first outing in Tests against South Africa, Brook made just 12; but later, on his first away tour to Pakistan, Harry scored his maiden hundred (153) in&nbsp;Rawalpindi. In the following innings, he hit 87 runs, and helped England win the first Test by 74 runs. Even in the next Test in Multan, Harry scored yet another hundred – this time 109 on a slower turning track, asserting his place for years to come. Not only this, he picked up Man-of-the-Match award&nbsp;for his knock in this Test that England won by 26 runs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttler-beat-adil-rashid-shaheen-afridi-to-become-icc-mens-player-of-the-month-for-november-542401">Jos Buttler, Sidra Ameen named ICC Players of the Month for November</a>

Brook has played 20 T20Is and was also part of England’s World Cup winning campaign. Speaking highly of this young and exciting-looking batter to Sky Sports, Stokes said after the stunning summer Brook has had, he has shown he is an all-format player. Adding&nbsp;with&nbsp;Brook’s simple technique he can put pressure on the opposition, much like India legend Virat Kohli.

"He's one of those rare players that you look across all formats and you can just see him being successful everywhere. It's a massive shout, but Virat Kohli is one of those guys where his technique is just so simple and works everywhere. The pressure that he puts back onto opposition is exactly what we're about."

"The expectation on his shoulders coming into this team, because of how good he's been for Yorkshire, was obviously huge," Ben Stokes said. "But I think that just shows that kind of stuff doesn't really affect him.

"He's a player whose technique is suited to all three formats, he wants to always look to be putting pressure back onto the opposition, and he's won another game for England. [He made a] huge contribution last week, and the hundred he scored here was obviously massive for us in getting that big lead.

"He's a pretty simple lad to captain: he just gets about his business, loves his batting, wants to constantly improve, constantly work on it. He's a pretty easy bloke to have in your dressing room."

While England have won the first two Tests against Pakistan, they will now aim to clean sweep the hosts by winning the 3rd Test also, which begins on December 17th in Karachi.

England is enjoying its cricket, and why they wouldn’t – they just defeated Pakistan in an away Test series on their first visit to the country in 17 years. Captain Ben Stokes and the coach Brendon McCullum reinvented an attacking brand of cricket, that everyone now calls ‘Bazball’.

England is enjoying its cricket, and why they wouldn’t – they just defeated Pakistan in an away Test series on their first visit to the country in 17 years. Captain Ben Stokes and the coach Brendon McCullum reinvented an attacking brand of cricket, that everyone now calls ‘Bazball’. A lot of young players and even some of the veterans have contributed immensely towards making this as a success, and one such player is the youngster named Harry Brook. The 23-year-old middle-order batter was touted to be the next big thing in English cricket even before he made his Test debut for England. In his first outing in Tests against South Africa, Brook made just 12; but later, on his first away tour to Pakistan, Harry scored his maiden hundred (153) in Rawalpindi. In the following innings, he hit 87 runs, and helped England win the first Test by 74 runs. Even in the next Test in Multan, Harry scored yet another hundred – this time 109 on a slower turning track, asserting his place for years to come. Not only this, he picked up Man-of-the-Match award for his knock in this Test that England won by 26 runs. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler, Sidra Ameen named ICC Players of the Month for November Brook has played 20 T20Is and was also part of England’s World Cup winning campaign. Speaking highly of this young and exciting-looking batter to Sky Sports, Stokes said after the stunning summer Brook has had, he has shown he is an all-format player. Adding with Brook’s simple technique he can put pressure on the opposition, much like India legend Virat Kohli. "He's one of those rare players that you look across all formats and you can just see him being successful everywhere. It's a massive shout, but Virat Kohli is one of those guys where his technique is just so simple and works everywhere. The pressure that he puts back onto opposition is exactly what we're about." "The expectation on his shoulders coming into this team, because of how good he's been for Yorkshire, was obviously huge," Ben Stokes said. "But I think that just shows that kind of stuff doesn't really affect him. "He's a player whose technique is suited to all three formats, he wants to always look to be putting pressure back onto the opposition, and he's won another game for England. [He made a] huge contribution last week, and the hundred he scored here was obviously massive for us in getting that big lead. "He's a pretty simple lad to captain: he just gets about his business, loves his batting, wants to constantly improve, constantly work on it. He's a pretty easy bloke to have in your dressing room." While England have won the first two Tests against Pakistan, they will now aim to clean sweep the hosts by winning the 3rd Test also, which begins on December 17th in Karachi.

PAK vs ENG 2022: Ben Stokes feels this English player can have a career quite like Virat Kohli

After losing the first Test versus England, Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with the visitors on Day 1 of the second and penultimate match in Multan on Friday (December 09). Pakistan handed a Test cap to Abrar&nbsp;Ahmed&nbsp;and the right-arm leg-break bowler accounted for seven for 114 to make a solid impression at the international level. With this, the 24-year-old became only the third Pakistani bowler to claim as many wickets on debut innings after&nbsp;Mohammad Zahid and&nbsp;Mohammad Nazir.

After England opted to bat first, they were scoring at a brisk rate once again but kept losing at regular intervals. Courtesy of fifties from Ben Duckett (63) and Ollie Pope (60), and vital contributions from captain Ben Stokes, Will Jack and Mark Wood, England posted 281 all-out in 51.4 overs but the star of the innings was debutant Abrar. He dismissed the top seven to make a memorable start. Here's all you need to know about him:

An upcoming spinner who didn't know legend Abdul Qadir? Yes, you heard that right!

Mushtaq Ahmed, head coach of Pakistan’s National Cricket Academy in Lahore in 2017, asked Abrar about Pakistan's legendary spinner Abdul Qadir. To his surprise, the youngster hadn't even heard his name. "Ye kaun hai, kabhi naam nahi suna (Who is he, never heard his name)," said Abrar. “Everyone started laughing and Mushtaq bhai told him ‘you’ve registered yourself as a leg-spinner and you don’t know about the greatest we ever produced,’” Sajid Ahmed, Abrar's brother,&nbsp;told The Indian Express.

Impressing from the early days

Abrar is the youngest of eight siblings. He was close to his mother and the brightest among all siblings. In his early days, he used to play tape-ball cricket when one day he suddenly heard about a cricket trial at Rashid Latif’s academy and decided to show up. Muhammad Masroor, then Pakistan’s U-19 coach, was supervising the trials and got mighty impressed by what he saw of young Abrar.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-told-me-during-asia-cup-shoaib-malik-credits-babar-azam-for-being-vocal-about-his-t20-wc-omission-541510">'He told me during Asia Cup...': Shoaib Malik credits Babar Azam for being vocal about his T20 WC omission</a>

'Fingers like iron rods'

Masroor recalled about Abrar's variations and said, "He was bowling all variations with the same grip). He doesn’t have that massive turn. He was bowling on the stumps, and no one was able to read his lengths. I immediately asked him whether he had ever played with the hard ball. The answer was ‘no’. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Out of curiosity, I checked his fingers, and those were like iron rods."

Rapid strides

In 2016, the 24-year-old spinner Abrar bagged as many as 53 wickets in Zonal U-19 in Karachi. Soon, Masroor passed on his videos to Rashid Latif, the then Karachi Kings'&nbsp;director of cricket. As a result, he was one of the emerging picks of the franchise in the PSL 2017.

After his first stint in the PSL, things turned upside down for Abrar as he suffered&nbsp;a stage-five stress fracture. Hence, he was kept out of action for quite long (two years). After being constantly motivated by his father, he returned to the scene&nbsp;in early 2020 while representing Sindh’s second XI. In the Quaid-e-Azam Second XI tournament in the Covid-hit year, Abrar accounted for a whopping 57 wickets at 11.75.

In the 2022-23 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Abrar returned with 43 wickets, averaging&nbsp;21.95. Such was his consistency that he&nbsp;took five five-wicket hauls in seven matches, helping his cause to earn a Test call-up versus England.

After losing the first Test versus England, Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with the visitors on Day 1 of the second and penultimate match in Multan on Friday (December 09).

After losing the first Test versus England, Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with the visitors on Day 1 of the second and penultimate match in Multan on Friday (December 09). Pakistan handed a Test cap to Abrar Ahmed and the right-arm leg-break bowler accounted for seven for 114 to make a solid impression at the international level. With this, the 24-year-old became only the third Pakistani bowler to claim as many wickets on debut innings after Mohammad Zahid and Mohammad Nazir. After England opted to bat first, they were scoring at a brisk rate once again but kept losing at regular intervals. Courtesy of fifties from Ben Duckett (63) and Ollie Pope (60), and vital contributions from captain Ben Stokes, Will Jack and Mark Wood, England posted 281 all-out in 51.4 overs but the star of the innings was debutant Abrar. He dismissed the top seven to make a memorable start. Here's all you need to know about him: An upcoming spinner who didn't know legend Abdul Qadir? Yes, you heard that right! Mushtaq Ahmed, head coach of Pakistan’s National Cricket Academy in Lahore in 2017, asked Abrar about Pakistan's legendary spinner Abdul Qadir. To his surprise, the youngster hadn't even heard his name. "Ye kaun hai, kabhi naam nahi suna (Who is he, never heard his name)," said Abrar. “Everyone started laughing and Mushtaq bhai told him ‘you’ve registered yourself as a leg-spinner and you don’t know about the greatest we ever produced,’” Sajid Ahmed, Abrar's brother, told The Indian Express. Impressing from the early days Abrar is the youngest of eight siblings. He was close to his mother and the brightest among all siblings. In his early days, he used to play tape-ball cricket when one day he suddenly heard about a cricket trial at Rashid Latif’s academy and decided to show up. Muhammad Masroor, then Pakistan’s U-19 coach, was supervising the trials and got mighty impressed by what he saw of young Abrar. Also read: 'He told me during Asia Cup...': Shoaib Malik credits Babar Azam for being vocal about his T20 WC omission 'Fingers like iron rods' Masroor recalled about Abrar's variations and said, "He was bowling all variations with the same grip). He doesn’t have that massive turn. He was bowling on the stumps, and no one was able to read his lengths. I immediately asked him whether he had ever played with the hard ball. The answer was ‘no’. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Out of curiosity, I checked his fingers, and those were like iron rods." Rapid strides In 2016, the 24-year-old spinner Abrar bagged as many as 53 wickets in Zonal U-19 in Karachi. Soon, Masroor passed on his videos to Rashid Latif, the then Karachi Kings' director of cricket. As a result, he was one of the emerging picks of the franchise in the PSL 2017. After his first stint in the PSL, things turned upside down for Abrar as he suffered a stage-five stress fracture. Hence, he was kept out of action for quite long (two years). After being constantly motivated by his father, he returned to the scene in early 2020 while representing Sindh’s second XI. In the Quaid-e-Azam Second XI tournament in the Covid-hit year, Abrar accounted for a whopping 57 wickets at 11.75. In the 2022-23 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Abrar returned with 43 wickets, averaging 21.95. Such was his consistency that he took five five-wicket hauls in seven matches, helping his cause to earn a Test call-up versus England.

Pak vs Eng, 2nd Test: Who is Abrar Ahmed? Debutant who claimed seven wickets to rattle Stokes & Co.

England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first on an unimpressive track, with nothing for bowlers, England rode on four centuries -- from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks -- to post 657 all-out in 101 overs.

In reply, Pakistan made 579 all-out with centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam. With a 78-run lead, England batters once again impressed and went all-out in their approach to post 264-7 in 35.5 overs, at over seven runs per over, to set up a challenging 343-run target. On Day 5, Pakistan were 259-5 but got dismissed for 268. Post the Test match, many have hailed Ben Stokes &amp; Co. for their bazball method which lit up the Test, played on a dead wicket.

Nonetheless, ex-English cricketer David Lloyd feels that England's approach isn't new.&nbsp;He recalled the great teams such as West Indies and Australia which were aggressive and never played for a draw. Lloyd further&nbsp; mentioned that only India can play a similar brand of cricket in whites, despite their batters being obsessed with numbers,&nbsp;due to Virat Kohli. "It is not totally new, of course. The Australian team of the 90s were very positive and the great West Indian sides were full of exhilarating stroke-makers. I reckon a team capable of this style now is India. They have all the tools. There has been a suspicion that Indian batters are stats driven but Virat Kohli is one who could drive this," wrote Lloyd in the Daily Mail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-others-come-to-sell-pickles-ex-pak-spinner-takes-a-dig-at-shaheen-less-pace-attack-after-1st-test-loss-540576">'Did others come to sell pickles?': Ex-Pak spinner takes a dig at Shaheen-less pace attack after 1st Test loss</a>

It is to be noted that Kohli remains India's greatest Test captain ever. He led India from 2015 to 2022 and infused a competitive and attacking mindset where the team didn't only rely on spinners but formed a lethal pace-bowling attack and went for results rather than settling for draws. Under Kohli, India beat Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, had an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 series (which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with Jasprit Bumrah leading in the final match), were highly competitive versus South Africa in their own den in 2018 and 2022 tours and remained a dominant force at home.&nbsp;

India also played the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final under Kohli's leadership and remained No. 1 ranked side in the format for a long time. At present, Rohit is India's full-time captain after Kohli's resignation early this year.

England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05).

England impressed one and all with their bazball method in the entire Rawalpindi Test to beat Pakistan by 74 runs on Day 5 of the three-match series opener on Monday (December 05). Opting to bat first on an unimpressive track, with nothing for bowlers, England rode on four centuries -- from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks -- to post 657 all-out in 101 overs. In reply, Pakistan made 579 all-out with centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam. With a 78-run lead, England batters once again impressed and went all-out in their approach to post 264-7 in 35.5 overs, at over seven runs per over, to set up a challenging 343-run target. On Day 5, Pakistan were 259-5 but got dismissed for 268. Post the Test match, many have hailed Ben Stokes & Co. for their bazball method which lit up the Test, played on a dead wicket. Nonetheless, ex-English cricketer David Lloyd feels that England's approach isn't new. He recalled the great teams such as West Indies and Australia which were aggressive and never played for a draw. Lloyd further mentioned that only India can play a similar brand of cricket in whites, despite their batters being obsessed with numbers, due to Virat Kohli. "It is not totally new, of course. The Australian team of the 90s were very positive and the great West Indian sides were full of exhilarating stroke-makers. I reckon a team capable of this style now is India. They have all the tools. There has been a suspicion that Indian batters are stats driven but Virat Kohli is one who could drive this," wrote Lloyd in the Daily Mail. Also read: 'Did others come to sell pickles?': Ex-Pak spinner takes a dig at Shaheen-less pace attack after 1st Test loss It is to be noted that Kohli remains India's greatest Test captain ever. He led India from 2015 to 2022 and infused a competitive and attacking mindset where the team didn't only rely on spinners but formed a lethal pace-bowling attack and went for results rather than settling for draws. Under Kohli, India beat Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, had an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 series (which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with Jasprit Bumrah leading in the final match), were highly competitive versus South Africa in their own den in 2018 and 2022 tours and remained a dominant force at home. India also played the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final under Kohli's leadership and remained No. 1 ranked side in the format for a long time. At present, Rohit is India's full-time captain after Kohli's resignation early this year.

'Virat Kohli is one who could drive this': David Lloyd claims only India can follow England's bazball method

Babar Azam-led Pakistan lost the three-match Test series opener versus England in Rawalpindi on Monday (December 05). From the word go, England impressed one and all with their all-out approach and were rewarded with a stunning 74-run win in the fag end of the final day. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes &amp; Co. posted 657 all-out in 101 overs and gained a 78-run lead after Pakistan were dismissed for 579 in their first essay.

In their second innings, England slammed 264/7 in 35.5 overs to set up a challenging 343-run target for the home side. In reply, Pakistan were 259 for 5 but soon reduced to 268 all-out to lose by 74 runs. After the match, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed Babar Azam and Ramiz Raja-led PCB.

On his Youtube channel, Kaneria said, "Abhi hamari management ake baat karegi, Babar Azam baat karenge, PCB k head baat karenge 'acchi cricket kheli England ne, hume unse seekhna chaie. Toh seekho na. Kab seekhoge? Time Guzar jayega. (Now our management will come out and talk, Babar Azam and the PCB chief Ramiz Raja will say 'England played well and we should learn from them'. When will you learn? It's already too late)."

Further, Kaneria opined, "They might blame Shaheen Afridi’s absence for the loss. If he’s not available, then&nbsp;dusre achar bechne aaye thhe? (Did&nbsp;other bowlers&nbsp;come to sell pickles?) Where are the planning and strategy, where is the reverse swing?"

"We only talk about the revival of international cricket in Pakistan.&nbsp;Pura din wahi manjan chal raha hota hai&nbsp;(The same discussion continues throughout the course of the&nbsp;day). Pakistan were clueless. Babar Azam should learn from Ben Stokes’ captaincy. Coaches around the world should also learn from Brendon McCullum. Their team doesn’t fear loss, but ours does."

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-pakistans-74-run-loss-vs-england-is-a-gain-for-india-with-wtc-final-ticket-at-stake-540261">EXPLAINED: How Pakistan's 74-run loss vs England is a gain for India with WTC final ticket at stake</a>

Kaneria added, “Our management fears losses. They only say that the team has been doing good. We are the No. 1 team. How can the Asia Cup happen without us? etc., but we don’t check where our cricket is heading. We made the wicket which was called dead rubber in Rawalpindi."

<section>
Many have slammed Ramiz-led PCB for Rawalpindi's nature of the surface. Despite England declaring with 343 to get for Pakistan, the home side still had a realistic chance to win the series opener with four sessions to play. However, there were plenty of soft dismissals which led to Pakistan's defeat.&nbsp;

The second and penultimate Test commences on December 09 in Multan.
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</section>

Babar Azam-led Pakistan lost the three-match Test series opener versus England in Rawalpindi on Monday (December 05). From the word go, England impressed one and all with their all-out approach and were rewarded with a stunning 74-run win in the fag end of the final day.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan lost the three-match Test series opener versus England in Rawalpindi on Monday (December 05). From the word go, England impressed one and all with their all-out approach and were rewarded with a stunning 74-run win in the fag end of the final day. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes & Co. posted 657 all-out in 101 overs and gained a 78-run lead after Pakistan were dismissed for 579 in their first essay. In their second innings, England slammed 264/7 in 35.5 overs to set up a challenging 343-run target for the home side. In reply, Pakistan were 259 for 5 but soon reduced to 268 all-out to lose by 74 runs. After the match, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed Babar Azam and Ramiz Raja-led PCB. On his Youtube channel, Kaneria said, "Abhi hamari management ake baat karegi, Babar Azam baat karenge, PCB k head baat karenge 'acchi cricket kheli England ne, hume unse seekhna chaie. Toh seekho na. Kab seekhoge? Time Guzar jayega. (Now our management will come out and talk, Babar Azam and the PCB chief Ramiz Raja will say 'England played well and we should learn from them'. When will you learn? It's already too late)." Further, Kaneria opined, "They might blame Shaheen Afridi’s absence for the loss. If he’s not available, then dusre achar bechne aaye thhe? (Did other bowlers come to sell pickles?) Where are the planning and strategy, where is the reverse swing?" "We only talk about the revival of international cricket in Pakistan. Pura din wahi manjan chal raha hota hai (The same discussion continues throughout the course of the day). Pakistan were clueless. Babar Azam should learn from Ben Stokes’ captaincy. Coaches around the world should also learn from Brendon McCullum. Their team doesn’t fear loss, but ours does." Also read: EXPLAINED: How Pakistan's 74-run loss vs England is a gain for India with WTC final ticket at stake Kaneria added, “Our management fears losses. They only say that the team has been doing good. We are the No. 1 team. How can the Asia Cup happen without us? etc., but we don’t check where our cricket is heading. We made the wicket which was called dead rubber in Rawalpindi." Many have slammed Ramiz-led PCB for Rawalpindi's nature of the surface. Despite England declaring with 343 to get for Pakistan, the home side still had a realistic chance to win the series opener with four sessions to play. However, there were plenty of soft dismissals which led to Pakistan's defeat. The second and penultimate Test commences on December 09 in Multan.

'Did others come to sell pickles?': Ex-Pak spinner takes a dig at Shaheen-less pace attack after 1st Test loss

In a blow to England’s chances of winning the first Test and the series overall, star all-rounder Liam Livingstone is ruled out of the remainder of the Pakistan Tests due to a knee injury. Liam injured his knee during day 2 while the reports of his&nbsp;scans on Sunday, day 4 suggested he is unfit&nbsp;and thus will miss the whole tour. He will be flying back to England on Tuesday, December 6th.

After he sustained the injury, Liam didn’t take the field during the Pakistan innings&nbsp;but&nbsp;came out to bat in England’s final innings, scoring 7 off just 8 balls. In his maiden outing in Tests, Livingstone could contribute little scoring just nine runs including one six. He, however, didn’t bowl in any of the innings following his knee injury.

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With now the second Test scheduled to begin on Friday, December 9th in Multan, it remains to be seen who replaces the all-rounder in the XI. England could be tempted to bring back keeper-batsman, Ben Foakes into the scheme of things, while Mark Wood is also likely to regain full fitness before the next match starts. In addition, 18-year-old spinner Rehan Ahmed could well make his debut in Multan after the coach and captain both showered praises on the youngster ahead of the series opener.

Pakistan-England battle hard for the win on day 5

In a Test match that saw many records getting broken, including England scoring the most runs on day one of a Test match, the action is underway on day five in Rawalpindi. England, after giving a target of 343 with just four sessions to go, brought life into this Test. Although Pakistan lost two wickets on day 4 including their captain Babar Azam, it remains to see if they could take this game home on the final day.

In a blow to England’s chances of winning the first Test and the series overall, star all-rounder Liam Livingstone is ruled out of the remainder of the Pakistan Tests due to a knee injury.

In a blow to England’s chances of winning the first Test and the series overall, star all-rounder Liam Livingstone is ruled out of the remainder of the Pakistan Tests due to a knee injury. Liam injured his knee during day 2 while the reports of his scans on Sunday, day 4 suggested he is unfit and thus will miss the whole tour. He will be flying back to England on Tuesday, December 6th. After he sustained the injury, Liam didn’t take the field during the Pakistan innings but came out to bat in England’s final innings, scoring 7 off just 8 balls. In his maiden outing in Tests, Livingstone could contribute little scoring just nine runs including one six. He, however, didn’t bowl in any of the innings following his knee injury. ALSO READ: India choke in the first ODI as Bangladesh pull off a famous victory With now the second Test scheduled to begin on Friday, December 9th in Multan, it remains to be seen who replaces the all-rounder in the XI. England could be tempted to bring back keeper-batsman, Ben Foakes into the scheme of things, while Mark Wood is also likely to regain full fitness before the next match starts. In addition, 18-year-old spinner Rehan Ahmed could well make his debut in Multan after the coach and captain both showered praises on the youngster ahead of the series opener. Pakistan-England battle hard for the win on day 5 In a Test match that saw many records getting broken, including England scoring the most runs on day one of a Test match, the action is underway on day five in Rawalpindi. England, after giving a target of 343 with just four sessions to go, brought life into this Test. Although Pakistan lost two wickets on day 4 including their captain Babar Azam, it remains to see if they could take this game home on the final day.

PAK vs ENG 2022: All-rounder Liam Livingstone to miss remainder of Pakistan series due to knee injury

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett,&nbsp;Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test.

Former English captain Joe Root didn't make the most of the batting-friendly wicket, in Rawalpindi, and was dismissed for 23. Nonetheless, the right-hander&nbsp;achieved a new world record by upstaging arch-rival Virat Kohli. By virtue of his knock, Root has now become the leading run-scorer of all time in competitions comprising&nbsp;five&nbsp;or more teams,&nbsp;such as the ICC World Test Championship, T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, and ICC Champions Trophy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rawalpindi-test-england-create-history-ben-stokes-co-become-first-team-to-hit-most-runs-on-day-1-539124">Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes &amp; Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1</a>

The 31-year-old Root has 5,121 runs, at&nbsp;52.25, along with 15 centuries and 22 half-centuries&nbsp;in 77 matches. On the other hand, the Indian star batter Kohli's tally reads&nbsp;5,107 runs in 114 games, averaging an impressive&nbsp;51.58 with&nbsp;six hundreds and as many as 40 half-centuries in such multi-nation competitions (with 5 or more teams).

Root&nbsp;will like to add more runs to his overall tally in the second innings of the first Test versus Pakistan. The visitors are cruising towards the 600-run mark, at the time of publishing this report, and have put the Babar Azam-led Pakistan on the back foot in the series opener.

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test.

Opting to bat first, England had a blast on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Pakistan on Thursday (December 01). Ben Stokes-led English line-up went to stumps at 506-4, riding on centuries from openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brooks, and created a world record of scoring most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. Former English captain Joe Root didn't make the most of the batting-friendly wicket, in Rawalpindi, and was dismissed for 23. Nonetheless, the right-hander achieved a new world record by upstaging arch-rival Virat Kohli. By virtue of his knock, Root has now become the leading run-scorer of all time in competitions comprising five or more teams, such as the ICC World Test Championship, T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, and ICC Champions Trophy. Also read: Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes & Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1 The 31-year-old Root has 5,121 runs, at 52.25, along with 15 centuries and 22 half-centuries in 77 matches. On the other hand, the Indian star batter Kohli's tally reads 5,107 runs in 114 games, averaging an impressive 51.58 with six hundreds and as many as 40 half-centuries in such multi-nation competitions (with 5 or more teams). Root will like to add more runs to his overall tally in the second innings of the first Test versus Pakistan. The visitors are cruising towards the 600-run mark, at the time of publishing this report, and have put the Babar Azam-led Pakistan on the back foot in the series opener.

Joe Root upstages Virat Kohli to achieve new world record during opening day of Pakistan-England Test

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4. Thus, England has created a world record for scoring the most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. In 1910, Australia had ended the Sydney Test's opening day's play at 494-6 versus South Africa. Thus, their arch-rivals in England have surpassed them to break the record after 112&nbsp;long years.&nbsp;

Coming out to bat, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett made merry of the batting conditions versus the Shaheen Afridi-less bowling attack. England reached 174 for no loss at the lunch break, moving past India's 158/0 (27 overs) to have the most runs by a team in the first session. Crawley scored a 111-ball 122, Duckett departed for a well-made 107 whereas keeper-batter Ollie Pope scored a hundred (108) before Harry Brooks remained unbeaten on 101. Captain Stokes also joined the party and remains unbeaten on a 15-ball 34, laced with 6 fours and a six, as the visitors piled on the miseries versus Pakistan. Thus, England became the first-ever side to hit 500 runs on the opening day of a Test match.&nbsp;

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The day saw as many as 73 fours and three sixes being scored by the English batters as Pakistani bowlers had no answers to their onslaught. While England's bazball approach has been hailed by many on social media platforms, many also slammed the dead wicket at Rawalpindi with bowlers having no say throughout the day.&nbsp;

Day Two will bring in a new challenge for Pakistan as they have a herculean task to stop England from running away from the game. Anything over 650 looks certain as of now unless a collapse takes place. In reply, Pakistani batters will have to bat very well and come close to England's first-innings score if they wish to stay alive in the game.

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4.

England created history on the opening day of the Rawalpindi Test versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan. After opting to bat first, on a flat surface, Ben Stokes-led Three Lions didn't do anything wrong on Day 1 to go to stumps at 506 for 4. Thus, England has created a world record for scoring the most runs by a team on Day 1 of a Test. In 1910, Australia had ended the Sydney Test's opening day's play at 494-6 versus South Africa. Thus, their arch-rivals in England have surpassed them to break the record after 112 long years. Coming out to bat, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett made merry of the batting conditions versus the Shaheen Afridi-less bowling attack. England reached 174 for no loss at the lunch break, moving past India's 158/0 (27 overs) to have the most runs by a team in the first session. Crawley scored a 111-ball 122, Duckett departed for a well-made 107 whereas keeper-batter Ollie Pope scored a hundred (108) before Harry Brooks remained unbeaten on 101. Captain Stokes also joined the party and remains unbeaten on a 15-ball 34, laced with 6 fours and a six, as the visitors piled on the miseries versus Pakistan. Thus, England became the first-ever side to hit 500 runs on the opening day of a Test match. Also read: Run machine Steve Smith equals Don Bradman's tally with splendid knock in Australia-West Indies Test The day saw as many as 73 fours and three sixes being scored by the English batters as Pakistani bowlers had no answers to their onslaught. While England's bazball approach has been hailed by many on social media platforms, many also slammed the dead wicket at Rawalpindi with bowlers having no say throughout the day. Day Two will bring in a new challenge for Pakistan as they have a herculean task to stop England from running away from the game. Anything over 650 looks certain as of now unless a collapse takes place. In reply, Pakistani batters will have to bat very well and come close to England's first-innings score if they wish to stay alive in the game.

Rawalpindi Test: England create history! Ben Stokes & Co. become first team to hit most runs on Day 1

Half of England’s Test squad and many support staff members are reported to have suffered illness ahead of the Rawalpindi Test - scheduled to start on Thursday, December 1st. As per ESPN Cricinfo, 13-14 staff members including more than half a dozen players seemed to have struck down with a virus or a bug. The England camp though&nbsp;confirmed that this is not the case of food poisoning, with the board already having a team chef - Omar Meziane traveling with them for this tour. An ECB spokesperson further affirmed this is also not the case with the COVID-19 virus.

On Tuesday, a few of the players reported feeling unwell, with some even experiencing diarrhea and vomiting; those all were advised to take rest in their hotel rooms. Captain Ben Stokes and veteran seamer James Anderson are believed to be among those affected. Spinner Jack Leach was also reported to be suffering from the same but is said to be fine now. Other than them, former skipper Joe Root also had some symptoms on Tuesday but recovered by Wednesday morning.

Given the current situation, the England camp is hopeful of this virus to be a passing one&nbsp;with the&nbsp;first of the three Tests beginning within 24 hours.

England name XI for 1st Test, Liam Livingstone to debut

On the eve of the first Test in Rawalpindi, England named their playing XI with Liam Livingstone being the newest entrant to the red-ball team. Ben Duckett also returned to the Test side after six years and is slated open along with Zak Crawley.

Here is England’s playing XI for the 1st Test against Pakistan – 

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Ben Foakes, Liam Livingstone, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, and James Anderson

Half of England’s Test squad and many support staff members are reported to have suffered illness ahead of the Rawalpindi Test - scheduled to start on Thursday, December 1st.

Half of England’s Test squad and many support staff members are reported to have suffered illness ahead of the Rawalpindi Test - scheduled to start on Thursday, December 1st. As per ESPN Cricinfo, 13-14 staff members including more than half a dozen players seemed to have struck down with a virus or a bug. The England camp though confirmed that this is not the case of food poisoning, with the board already having a team chef - Omar Meziane traveling with them for this tour. An ECB spokesperson further affirmed this is also not the case with the COVID-19 virus. On Tuesday, a few of the players reported feeling unwell, with some even experiencing diarrhea and vomiting; those all were advised to take rest in their hotel rooms. Captain Ben Stokes and veteran seamer James Anderson are believed to be among those affected. Spinner Jack Leach was also reported to be suffering from the same but is said to be fine now. Other than them, former skipper Joe Root also had some symptoms on Tuesday but recovered by Wednesday morning. Given the current situation, the England camp is hopeful of this virus to be a passing one with the first of the three Tests beginning within 24 hours. England name XI for 1st Test, Liam Livingstone to debut On the eve of the first Test in Rawalpindi, England named their playing XI with Liam Livingstone being the newest entrant to the red-ball team. Ben Duckett also returned to the Test side after six years and is slated open along with Zak Crawley. Here is England’s playing XI for the 1st Test against Pakistan – Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Ben Foakes, Liam Livingstone, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, and James Anderson

ENG vs PAK 2022: Half of England squad, support staff down with diarrhea ahead of Rawalpindi Test

England Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum have rated teenager Rehan Ahmed as a special talent. The 18-year-old Rehan played just three first-class matches for Leicestershire - picking up nine wickets and scoring 195 runs. The young all-rounder is likely to make his debut for England in the Test series, starting December 1st in Rawalpindi.

Speaking to the press ahead of the first Test, coach Brendon McCullum spoke at length on&nbsp;the youngster, heaping praises. The former New Zealand skipper, who was branded for playing aggressive and ruthless cricket, said Rehan has the confidence to do well and has the ability to overcome challenges on this tour. McCullum further said this opportunity (Test series against Pakistan) is massive for the young gun to show everyone what he is capable of.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-england-ahead-of-historic-return-test-in-pakistan-mark-wood-ruled-out-due-to-injury-538280">Big blow to England ahead of historic return Test in Pakistan, Mark Wood ruled out due to injury</a>

"What a fabulous kind of opportunity for someone like him," McCullum told the Daily Telegraph. "He seems really confident in himself. He's 18 and on an England tour to Pakistan so there's some real opportunities there and there'll be some challenges along the way, but it's our job to figure this out. We know that he's not the finished product. He's a long way away from that, but he's got something which is pretty kind of special."

Earlier, skipper Ben Stokes&nbsp;also rated all-rounder Rehan as a rare talent while speaking to Sky Sports. Ben said with the talent Rehan posses&nbsp;at this young age, he could achieve a lot more than others.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"We see him as one of those very rare talents, to have someone at such a young age be so noticeable with the way he bowls and the way he bats," Ben Stokes told Sky Sports.

A match-winner himself Stokes is also aware that Rehan is very young and has a whole cricketing career in front of him. He added saying the management will nurture him going ahead.

"We're fully aware he's not the finished project and I think it's important for his inclusion not to be looked into too much. We see this as an opportunity to get someone as talented as Rehan into the squad and nurture him," he added. "Who knows where he could be in two or three years' time? "I'm excited to have him in the squad, but if we feel we want to chuck him a Test cap, we're in the position to do that."

The first of three-match Test series will begin on December 1st in Rawalpindi.

England Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum have rated teenager Rehan Ahmed as a special talent. The 18-year-old Rehan played just three first-class matches for Leicestershire - picking up nine wickets and scoring 195 runs.

England Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum have rated teenager Rehan Ahmed as a special talent. The 18-year-old Rehan played just three first-class matches for Leicestershire - picking up nine wickets and scoring 195 runs. The young all-rounder is likely to make his debut for England in the Test series, starting December 1st in Rawalpindi. Speaking to the press ahead of the first Test, coach Brendon McCullum spoke at length on the youngster, heaping praises. The former New Zealand skipper, who was branded for playing aggressive and ruthless cricket, said Rehan has the confidence to do well and has the ability to overcome challenges on this tour. McCullum further said this opportunity (Test series against Pakistan) is massive for the young gun to show everyone what he is capable of. ALSO READ: Big blow to England ahead of historic return Test in Pakistan, Mark Wood ruled out due to injury "What a fabulous kind of opportunity for someone like him," McCullum told the Daily Telegraph. "He seems really confident in himself. He's 18 and on an England tour to Pakistan so there's some real opportunities there and there'll be some challenges along the way, but it's our job to figure this out. We know that he's not the finished product. He's a long way away from that, but he's got something which is pretty kind of special." Earlier, skipper Ben Stokes also rated all-rounder Rehan as a rare talent while speaking to Sky Sports. Ben said with the talent Rehan posses at this young age, he could achieve a lot more than others. "We see him as one of those very rare talents, to have someone at such a young age be so noticeable with the way he bowls and the way he bats," Ben Stokes told Sky Sports. A match-winner himself Stokes is also aware that Rehan is very young and has a whole cricketing career in front of him. He added saying the management will nurture him going ahead. "We're fully aware he's not the finished project and I think it's important for his inclusion not to be looked into too much. We see this as an opportunity to get someone as talented as Rehan into the squad and nurture him," he added. "Who knows where he could be in two or three years' time? "I'm excited to have him in the squad, but if we feel we want to chuck him a Test cap, we're in the position to do that." The first of three-match Test series will begin on December 1st in Rawalpindi.

PAK vs ENG 2022: Brendon McCullum, Ben Stokes rate 18-year-old Rehan Ahmed as a 'rare talent'

England premium fast bowler Mark Wood will miss the first Test against Pakistan due to a hip injury. Wood, who sustained the injury during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup in Australia, was rested from&nbsp;the side's training session in Abu Dhabi last week. Ahead of the first Test match in Rawalpindi, starting December 1st, coach Brendon McCullum confirmed the news. He said Wood&nbsp;will remain on the sidelines for this Test but&nbsp;could return to the XI for the second Test in Multan, scheduled to begin on December 9th.

"Mark's not going to make the first Test squad unfortunately because of his injury," McCullum said. "We expect him to be ready for the second Test and otherwise we've got a full squad to pick from."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-ind-3rd-odi-will-rain-impact-third-and-final-match-to-spoil-team-indias-chances-in-christchurch-538255">NZ vs IND, 3rd ODI: Will rain impact third and final match to spoil Team India's chances in Christchurch?</a>

Although England&nbsp;have the firepower in their bowling attack in James Anderson, Craig Overton, his brother Jamie Overton and Ollie Robinson, Wood's absence is still going to hurt them. During the 7-match T20I series just before the World Cup, Wood created havoc in the two T20Is he played on Pakistan soil - where he traumatized Pakistan&nbsp;batsmen with fiery bouncers and picked six wickets in the process.&nbsp;

England is returning to Pakistan for a Test series after nearly 17 years, having last visited them in 2005. Even then, James Anderson was part of the squad. His partner in crime, another England legend Stuart Broad is missing this series due to personal reasons.&nbsp;

England squad for Pakistan Tests -&nbsp;

Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Will Jacks, Keaton Jennings, Jack Leach, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Mark Wood

Pakistan vs England fixtures -

First Test, Rawalpindi (December 1-5)&nbsp; 
Second Test, Multan (December 9-13) 
Third Test, Karachi (December 17-21)&nbsp;

England premium fast bowler Mark Wood will miss the first Test against Pakistan due to a hip injury. Wood, who sustained the injury during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup in Australia, was rested from the side's training session in Abu Dhabi last week.

England premium fast bowler Mark Wood will miss the first Test against Pakistan due to a hip injury. Wood, who sustained the injury during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup in Australia, was rested from the side's training session in Abu Dhabi last week. Ahead of the first Test match in Rawalpindi, starting December 1st, coach Brendon McCullum confirmed the news. He said Wood will remain on the sidelines for this Test but could return to the XI for the second Test in Multan, scheduled to begin on December 9th. "Mark's not going to make the first Test squad unfortunately because of his injury," McCullum said. "We expect him to be ready for the second Test and otherwise we've got a full squad to pick from." ALSO READ: NZ vs IND, 3rd ODI: Will rain impact third and final match to spoil Team India's chances in Christchurch? Although England have the firepower in their bowling attack in James Anderson, Craig Overton, his brother Jamie Overton and Ollie Robinson, Wood's absence is still going to hurt them. During the 7-match T20I series just before the World Cup, Wood created havoc in the two T20Is he played on Pakistan soil - where he traumatized Pakistan batsmen with fiery bouncers and picked six wickets in the process. England is returning to Pakistan for a Test series after nearly 17 years, having last visited them in 2005. Even then, James Anderson was part of the squad. His partner in crime, another England legend Stuart Broad is missing this series due to personal reasons. England squad for Pakistan Tests - Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Will Jacks, Keaton Jennings, Jack Leach, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Mark Wood Pakistan vs England fixtures - First Test, Rawalpindi (December 1-5) Second Test, Multan (December 9-13) Third Test, Karachi (December 17-21)

Big blow to England ahead of historic return Test in Pakistan, Mark Wood ruled out due to injury

Jos Buttler-less England won the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan on Sunday evening (October 2) in Lahore. In a series which saw the momentum being shifted from one side to the other, Moeen Ali-led England came from behind, trailing 2-3, to win 4-3 with a stunnnig 67-run win in the series finale on Sunday.

Being asked to bat first, Moeen &amp; Co. posted a mammoth 209 for 3, riding on&nbsp;Dawid Malan's 47-ball 78 and handy contributions&nbsp;from other batters. In reply,&nbsp;Babar and Md Rizwan -- the No. 1 T20I batter -- couldn't do much and got perished soon.&nbsp;Shan Masood's 56 was the only shining aspect for the Men in Green as they were restrcted for a modest&nbsp;148 for 8 to lose by a convincing&nbsp;margin.&nbsp;

After the clash, the stand-in captain lauded his side for putting up a team effort in the series decider but refrained from calling England the favourites heading into the T20 World Cup, in Australia from October 16. "We're really happy to win this series and we go to Australia in a really good position, but I don't think we're favourites for the World Cup. If I'm honest, I don't feel that way at all, but I know we are a very dangerous team to play and other teams will fear playing us. But I still think Australia and India are the two favourites," said Ali.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-miss-3rd-t20i-vs-sa-former-captain-spotted-at-mumbai-airport-after-indias-series-win-522046">Virat Kohli to miss 3rd T20I vs SA? Former captain spotted at Mumbai airport after India's series win</a>

On the series win, the all-rounder said, "Brilliant game from us, we played well from the start. I thought our bowling was outstanding. Throughout the series, we bowled really well. When the team is batting like that, it gives a lot of confidence. Credit to the boys for the way they played. We needed two must-win games. It was amazing to see how we won the last two games. Also, it shows the depth we have in our squad. Just want to say thank you to everyone, and the PCB for looking after us."

Many former cricketers and experts feel India and Australia are one of the strongest sides heading into the T20 WC Down Under. Both are placed in different groups in the Super 12 but are expected to meet in the semi-finals or the final.

England squad for T20 World Cup 2022 edition

Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Alex Hales

Reserves:&nbsp;Liam Dawson, Richard Gleeson, Tymal Mills.

Jos Buttler-less England won the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan on Sunday evening (October 2) in Lahore. In a series which saw the momentum being shifted from one side to the other, Moeen Ali-led England came from behind, trailing 2-3, to win 4-3 with a stunnnig 67-run win in the series finale on Sunday.

Jos Buttler-less England won the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Babar Azam-led Pakistan on Sunday evening (October 2) in Lahore. In a series which saw the momentum being shifted from one side to the other, Moeen Ali-led England came from behind, trailing 2-3, to win 4-3 with a stunnnig 67-run win in the series finale on Sunday. Being asked to bat first, Moeen & Co. posted a mammoth 209 for 3, riding on Dawid Malan's 47-ball 78 and handy contributions from other batters. In reply, Babar and Md Rizwan -- the No. 1 T20I batter -- couldn't do much and got perished soon. Shan Masood's 56 was the only shining aspect for the Men in Green as they were restrcted for a modest 148 for 8 to lose by a convincing margin. After the clash, the stand-in captain lauded his side for putting up a team effort in the series decider but refrained from calling England the favourites heading into the T20 World Cup, in Australia from October 16. "We're really happy to win this series and we go to Australia in a really good position, but I don't think we're favourites for the World Cup. If I'm honest, I don't feel that way at all, but I know we are a very dangerous team to play and other teams will fear playing us. But I still think Australia and India are the two favourites," said Ali. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli to miss 3rd T20I vs SA? Former captain spotted at Mumbai airport after India's series win On the series win, the all-rounder said, "Brilliant game from us, we played well from the start. I thought our bowling was outstanding. Throughout the series, we bowled really well. When the team is batting like that, it gives a lot of confidence. Credit to the boys for the way they played. We needed two must-win games. It was amazing to see how we won the last two games. Also, it shows the depth we have in our squad. Just want to say thank you to everyone, and the PCB for looking after us." Many former cricketers and experts feel India and Australia are one of the strongest sides heading into the T20 WC Down Under. Both are placed in different groups in the Super 12 but are expected to meet in the semi-finals or the final. England squad for T20 World Cup 2022 edition Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Alex Hales Reserves: Liam Dawson, Richard Gleeson, Tymal Mills.

Not England! Moeen Ali names two teams favourites for T20 World Cup in Australia

Mohammad Rizwan has been in sensational form for Pakistan. His recent run of form in the shortest format is exceptional. He ended as the highest run-getter in the Asia Cup, with 281 runs in six outings, and has already scored three half-centuries out of four T20Is in Pakistan's ongoing home series versus England.

Rizwan, the No. 1 T20I batter, remains one of the key players for Pakistan as the Men in Green are gearing up for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia in October-November. However, the wicketkeeper-batter made heads turn in a shocking video which has gone viral. In the viral clip, the 30-year-old was signing autographs for the Pakistan fans on caps and jerseys. Amid all this, someone threw the national flag towards him and the Pakistani opener caught hold of it and signed on it. However, he lifted the Pakistani flag with his feet towards the end of the video:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-t20i-virat-kohli-only-35-runs-away-from-leapfrogging-rohit-sharma-in-elite-list-520504">IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list</a>

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Mohammad Rizwan raised the flag with his feet<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ihaterizwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ihaterizwan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/countryfirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#countryfirst</a> 
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-dont-have-a-finisher-like-indias-hardik-pandya-says-former-skipper-shahid-afridi-520261">Pakistan don't have a finisher like India's Hardik Pandya, says former skipper Shahid Afridi</a>

Talking about Pakistan-England seven-match T20I series, the Karachi leg got over on Sunday (September 25) with the hosts winning the fourth encounter by three runs. Being asked to bat first, Pakistan rode on Rizwan's 88 to post 166 for 4 in 20 overs. In reply, England conceded the game despite needing only five runs off the last ten deliveries, with three wickets in hand. They were dismissed for 163 in 19.2 overs with Haris Rauf and Mohammad Nawaz accounting for three scalps each.

Mohammad Rizwan has been in sensational form for Pakistan. His recent run of form in the shortest format is exceptional. He ended as the highest run-getter in the Asia Cup, with 281 runs in six outings, and has already scored three half-centuries out of four T20Is in Pakistan's ongoing home series versus England.

Mohammad Rizwan has been in sensational form for Pakistan. His recent run of form in the shortest format is exceptional. He ended as the highest run-getter in the Asia Cup, with 281 runs in six outings, and has already scored three half-centuries out of four T20Is in Pakistan's ongoing home series versus England. Rizwan, the No. 1 T20I batter, remains one of the key players for Pakistan as the Men in Green are gearing up for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia in October-November. However, the wicketkeeper-batter made heads turn in a shocking video which has gone viral. In the viral clip, the 30-year-old was signing autographs for the Pakistan fans on caps and jerseys. Amid all this, someone threw the national flag towards him and the Pakistani opener caught hold of it and signed on it. However, he lifted the Pakistani flag with his feet towards the end of the video: ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list Mohammad Rizwan raised the flag with his feet#ihaterizwan#countryfirst . . . . . Credit @khelshel pic.twitter.com/AN3LG6L5RD — Shivam Rajvanshi (@social_timepass) September 27, 2022 × ALSO READ | Pakistan don't have a finisher like India's Hardik Pandya, says former skipper Shahid Afridi Talking about Pakistan-England seven-match T20I series, the Karachi leg got over on Sunday (September 25) with the hosts winning the fourth encounter by three runs. Being asked to bat first, Pakistan rode on Rizwan's 88 to post 166 for 4 in 20 overs. In reply, England conceded the game despite needing only five runs off the last ten deliveries, with three wickets in hand. They were dismissed for 163 in 19.2 overs with Haris Rauf and Mohammad Nawaz accounting for three scalps each.

WATCH: SHOCKING! Md Rizwan lifts Pakistan flag with his feet as video goes viral

Pakistan and England will meet each other in the second match of the seven-match T20I series on Thursday evening (September 22) in Karachi. The series opener lived up to expectations as the match went down to the last over but saw the hosts lose by six wickets. Being asked to bat first, Babar Azam-led Men in Green posted a competitive 158 for 7 riding on Md Rizwan's 68 and vital knocks from Babar and Iftikhar Ahmad.

In reply, the Jos Buttler-less England team rode on comeback man Alex Hales' 53 and vital contributions from Dawid Malan and&nbsp;Harry Brook. Stand-in captain Moeen Ali would hope for another clinical display from his troops in order to go 2-0 up in the series. Pakistan, on the other hand, will hope for a quick turnaround and address their middle-order batting woes. They will also need to come up with answers against Luke Wood -- who returned with 3 for 24 on international debut in the series opener.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I match taking place?

Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I&nbsp;will be held on September 22, 2022 (Thursday).&nbsp;

Where is Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will be played at the National Stadium, Karachi.

At what time will the Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I&nbsp;get underway?

Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I&nbsp;will commence at 8:00 pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20i-rankings-suryakumar-surpasses-babar-azam-hardik-gains-big-after-mohali-blitz-vs-australia-518501">ICC T20I Rankings: Suryakumar surpasses Babar Azam, Hardik gains big after Mohali blitz vs Australia</a>

How to watch Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I live on TV?

Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will be aired live&nbsp;on the Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I live streaming?

Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I's live streaming will be available&nbsp;on the Sony Liv app and the website.

Pakistan and England will meet each other in the second match of the seven-match T20I series on Thursday evening (September 22) in Karachi. The series opener lived up to expectations as the match went down to the last over but saw the hosts lose by six wickets.

Pakistan and England will meet each other in the second match of the seven-match T20I series on Thursday evening (September 22) in Karachi. The series opener lived up to expectations as the match went down to the last over but saw the hosts lose by six wickets. Being asked to bat first, Babar Azam-led Men in Green posted a competitive 158 for 7 riding on Md Rizwan's 68 and vital knocks from Babar and Iftikhar Ahmad. In reply, the Jos Buttler-less England team rode on comeback man Alex Hales' 53 and vital contributions from Dawid Malan and Harry Brook. Stand-in captain Moeen Ali would hope for another clinical display from his troops in order to go 2-0 up in the series. Pakistan, on the other hand, will hope for a quick turnaround and address their middle-order batting woes. They will also need to come up with answers against Luke Wood -- who returned with 3 for 24 on international debut in the series opener. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I match taking place? Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will be held on September 22, 2022 (Thursday). Where is Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I taking place? Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will be played at the National Stadium, Karachi. At what time will the Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I get underway? Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will commence at 8:00 pm (IST). ALSO READ | ICC T20I Rankings: Suryakumar surpasses Babar Azam, Hardik gains big after Mohali blitz vs Australia How to watch Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I live on TV? Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I will be aired live on the Sony Sports Network. How to watch Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I live streaming? Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I's live streaming will be available on the Sony Liv app and the website.

Pak vs Eng: When and where to watch Pakistan vs England 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details

In Jos Buttler's absence, Moeen Ali will lead England in the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Pakistan. The series&nbsp;gets underway on September 20 (Tuesday). Buttler is&nbsp;with the England squad in Pakistan, however, he is expected to be out of action at least till the Karachi leg of the series, i.e. the first four games, with Moeen to lead the Three Lions.

Moeen opened up on leading England in Pakistan, a country where he has his roots, while speaking to BBC Sport ahead of the first T20I. "It was meant to be," Moeen told prior to the series opener in Karachi on Tuesday.

"It feels amazing that after such a long time the timing is right for me to lead England there. I've played in Pakistan before but representing England for the first time there, that's special and amazing. I'm really excited and hopefully we can play some good cricket and entertain the crowd," the all-rounder opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/personal-attacks-should-not-happen-pakistan-skipper-babar-azam-responds-to-aaqib-javeds-sarcastic-remarks-517969">Personal attacks should not happen: Pakistan skipper Babar Azam responds to Aaqib Javed’s sarcastic remarks</a>

While a lot teams have toured Pakistan in the recent past -- such as West Indies, Australia, etc. -- Moeen feels England's arrival will the moment when the Asian giants can feel that cricket is truly back in their country. "Other teams have toured there already but when England go there, that's when cricket in Pakistan will really feel like it's back," said Ali.

"It's really important because Pakistan have always been a really talented team but they need to play in front of their own crowds and their own kids so they can inspire the next generation coming through," he added.

Moeen also spoke about the impact of Saeed Anwar, former Pakistan opener, in his life. "The one player I always loved and still love is Saeed Anwar, I loved his batting. I call him my ustaad (teacher). He's one of the greatest coaches I have ever worked with, definitely the best spin coach," concluded Ali.

England are touring Pakistan after 17 long years. They will play seven T20Is, before the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, followed by three Tests (in December).

In Jos Buttler's absence, Moeen Ali will lead England in the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Pakistan. The series gets underway on September 20 (Tuesday). Buttler is with the England squad in Pakistan, however, he is expected to be out of action at least till the Karachi leg of the series, i.

In Jos Buttler's absence, Moeen Ali will lead England in the seven-match T20I series versus hosts Pakistan. The series gets underway on September 20 (Tuesday). Buttler is with the England squad in Pakistan, however, he is expected to be out of action at least till the Karachi leg of the series, i.e. the first four games, with Moeen to lead the Three Lions. Moeen opened up on leading England in Pakistan, a country where he has his roots, while speaking to BBC Sport ahead of the first T20I. "It was meant to be," Moeen told prior to the series opener in Karachi on Tuesday. "It feels amazing that after such a long time the timing is right for me to lead England there. I've played in Pakistan before but representing England for the first time there, that's special and amazing. I'm really excited and hopefully we can play some good cricket and entertain the crowd," the all-rounder opined. ALSO READ | Personal attacks should not happen: Pakistan skipper Babar Azam responds to Aaqib Javed’s sarcastic remarks While a lot teams have toured Pakistan in the recent past -- such as West Indies, Australia, etc. -- Moeen feels England's arrival will the moment when the Asian giants can feel that cricket is truly back in their country. "Other teams have toured there already but when England go there, that's when cricket in Pakistan will really feel like it's back," said Ali. "It's really important because Pakistan have always been a really talented team but they need to play in front of their own crowds and their own kids so they can inspire the next generation coming through," he added. Moeen also spoke about the impact of Saeed Anwar, former Pakistan opener, in his life. "The one player I always loved and still love is Saeed Anwar, I loved his batting. I call him my ustaad (teacher). He's one of the greatest coaches I have ever worked with, definitely the best spin coach," concluded Ali. England are touring Pakistan after 17 long years. They will play seven T20Is, before the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, followed by three Tests (in December).

Pakistan-origin Moeen Ali opens up on leading England in T20I series against Babar Azam & Co.

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his&nbsp;grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005).&nbsp;

England are set to tour Pakistan ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup -- for seven T20Is and a three-match Test series (in December) -- where Moeen is expected to lead the side, as per a report in The Guardian, in regular white-ball captain Jos Buttler's absence. With Buttler out of action due to a calf injury, he is racing against time to be fit and, hence, his deputy Moeen will lead in his absence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shame-on-you-pakistan-fans-troll-mohammad-amir-after-his-tweet-praising-hardik-pandya-post-indias-win-511595">'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win</a>

This won't be the first time that Moeen will lead England. The all-rounder had led the Three Lions in their third and final T20I versus visitors Australia, in Southampton, in September 2020. Back then, he had become&nbsp;the first Asian origin cricketer to captain England in any format after Nasser Hussain. If he leads the T20I side in Pakistan, it will be a special moment for the 35-year-old by all means.

Also, the series in Pakistan will be the first-ever for the England men’s team since 2005 as the subsequent contests between the two heavyweights were held by&nbsp;the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in United Arab Emirates. In September 2021, England Cricket Board (ECB) had decided to withdraw their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand citing security concerns to abandon their tour of the Asian country.

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005).

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005). England are set to tour Pakistan ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup -- for seven T20Is and a three-match Test series (in December) -- where Moeen is expected to lead the side, as per a report in The Guardian, in regular white-ball captain Jos Buttler's absence. With Buttler out of action due to a calf injury, he is racing against time to be fit and, hence, his deputy Moeen will lead in his absence. ALSO READ | 'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win This won't be the first time that Moeen will lead England. The all-rounder had led the Three Lions in their third and final T20I versus visitors Australia, in Southampton, in September 2020. Back then, he had become the first Asian origin cricketer to captain England in any format after Nasser Hussain. If he leads the T20I side in Pakistan, it will be a special moment for the 35-year-old by all means. Also, the series in Pakistan will be the first-ever for the England men’s team since 2005 as the subsequent contests between the two heavyweights were held by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in United Arab Emirates. In September 2021, England Cricket Board (ECB) had decided to withdraw their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand citing security concerns to abandon their tour of the Asian country.

Moeen Ali set to lead T20I side in Jos Buttler's absence during England's first visit to Pakistan in 17 years

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan&nbsp;-- also withdrew&nbsp;due to "bubble&nbsp; fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming.

However, the England cricket have made a strong move to amend their mistakes as the&nbsp;ECB boss Tom Harrison travelled to Pakistan to meet his PCB counterpart. Thus, he has assured that the England men's cricket team will tour Pakistan in September 2022, for seven T20Is (comprising two additional games), and return for a three-match Test series in the Asian country post next year's T20 World Cup (in Australia).

As a result of England's commitment, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja lauded the ECB and shared Pakistan cricket's forward plan.&nbsp;In a video shared by the PCB, Raja didn't just thank ECB for confirming the 2022 tour but also revealed that he is planning to introduce U-19 and Women's PSL along with giving the countrymen a full home season every year.

"I'm thankful to the England Cricket Board (ECB), as it wasn't easy for them. They were under pressure and we became emotional when the pullout took place. Everyone saw how Pakistan made its case, and the result is they came here. The only thing is we and the ECB must walk together because it's important for every board to understand each other, their frustrations, meet the expectations. I think the ECB also understood they committed a mistake by withdrawing, and it was a knee-jerk reaction," Raja said in the video.

"This tour was important, and it's their gratefulness. Coming over here to sort things out and accepting their fault and promising to play two additional T20Is is good news for our fans because I believe Pakistan should have a home season so spectators come and watch and top teams should tour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-to-tour-pakistan-in-september-october-2022-to-play-two-additional-t20is-428089">England to tour Pakistan in September-October 2022, to play two additional T20Is</a>

Ramiz also hinted that NZ might also take a leaf from the ECB and reschedule their cancelled&nbsp;Pakistan tour for next year. "We are also revisiting New Zealand's tour, and when I go to Dubai, we might announce a schedule. However, England and Australia tours are massive breakthroughs, and I expect our side to perform well. I want us to be a proud nation and our fans, our team, and the board to be respected. Also, if we are firm and honest, we need not fear anybody," he said.

Lastly, he also made some big promises and revealed, "In October, hopefully we will launch something like a PSL for Under-19 level. We are very excited because this has not happened anywhere in the world.&nbsp;England will send their Under-19 players, we will look after them. We will create a new property.&nbsp;Going ahead, I will give you a home season."

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ٹام ہیریسن کا پاکستان آنا خوش آئند ہے، چیئرمین پی سی بی رمیز راجہ کی مستقبل کے منصوبوں پر گفتگو <a href="https://t.co/mtJgNN1OZ8">pic.twitter.com/mtJgNN1OZ8</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-semi-finals-schedule-england-face-new-zealand-australia-to-lock-horns-with-pakistan-427709">T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan</a>

Ramiz-led PCB have faced several issues ever since the former captain took over the top post. Meanwhile, the Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team are also moving forward very strongly in the T20 WC after they were left frustrated post NZ and England's tour withdrawals. Babar &amp; Co. are in the last four of the T20 WC and will play Australia in the second semi-final, on Thursday (November 11) at Dubai.&nbsp;

So far, the Men in Green remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament. Will they return with the coveted title and give the best gift ever to the countrymen, who were left devastated and deprived of enjoying cricketing action on home soil post NZ, England's withdrawals? Only time will tell...

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan -- also withdrew due to "bubble fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming.

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan -- also withdrew due to "bubble fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming. However, the England cricket have made a strong move to amend their mistakes as the ECB boss Tom Harrison travelled to Pakistan to meet his PCB counterpart. Thus, he has assured that the England men's cricket team will tour Pakistan in September 2022, for seven T20Is (comprising two additional games), and return for a three-match Test series in the Asian country post next year's T20 World Cup (in Australia). As a result of England's commitment, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja lauded the ECB and shared Pakistan cricket's forward plan. In a video shared by the PCB, Raja didn't just thank ECB for confirming the 2022 tour but also revealed that he is planning to introduce U-19 and Women's PSL along with giving the countrymen a full home season every year. "I'm thankful to the England Cricket Board (ECB), as it wasn't easy for them. They were under pressure and we became emotional when the pullout took place. Everyone saw how Pakistan made its case, and the result is they came here. The only thing is we and the ECB must walk together because it's important for every board to understand each other, their frustrations, meet the expectations. I think the ECB also understood they committed a mistake by withdrawing, and it was a knee-jerk reaction," Raja said in the video. "This tour was important, and it's their gratefulness. Coming over here to sort things out and accepting their fault and promising to play two additional T20Is is good news for our fans because I believe Pakistan should have a home season so spectators come and watch and top teams should tour." ALSO READ | England to tour Pakistan in September-October 2022, to play two additional T20Is Ramiz also hinted that NZ might also take a leaf from the ECB and reschedule their cancelled Pakistan tour for next year. "We are also revisiting New Zealand's tour, and when I go to Dubai, we might announce a schedule. However, England and Australia tours are massive breakthroughs, and I expect our side to perform well. I want us to be a proud nation and our fans, our team, and the board to be respected. Also, if we are firm and honest, we need not fear anybody," he said. Lastly, he also made some big promises and revealed, "In October, hopefully we will launch something like a PSL for Under-19 level. We are very excited because this has not happened anywhere in the world. England will send their Under-19 players, we will look after them. We will create a new property. Going ahead, I will give you a home season." ٹام ہیریسن کا پاکستان آنا خوش آئند ہے، چیئرمین پی سی بی رمیز راجہ کی مستقبل کے منصوبوں پر گفتگو pic.twitter.com/mtJgNN1OZ8 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 9, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan Ramiz-led PCB have faced several issues ever since the former captain took over the top post. Meanwhile, the Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team are also moving forward very strongly in the T20 WC after they were left frustrated post NZ and England's tour withdrawals. Babar & Co. are in the last four of the T20 WC and will play Australia in the second semi-final, on Thursday (November 11) at Dubai. So far, the Men in Green remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament. Will they return with the coveted title and give the best gift ever to the countrymen, who were left devastated and deprived of enjoying cricketing action on home soil post NZ, England's withdrawals? Only time will tell...

Women's and U-19 PSL, full home season: Ramiz reveals forward plan as PAK look to revamp as hosts

England will play two additional men's Twenty20 Internationals to the five T20Is originally planned when they will tour Pakistan in September/October 2022, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Executive Tom Harrison announced on Tuesday following his meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja.

The men's side will then return to Pakistan in November/December at the back of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Australia 2022 to play three Tests, which will form part of the ICC World Test Championship.

ECB Chief Executive Tom Harrison in an official release: "Myself and ECB's Senior Director Martin Darlow visited Lahore to talk face to face with the PCB around some of the things that have happened over the past few weeks, leading to the cancellation of our tour in October.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-to-tour-pakistan-for-first-time-in-24-years-for-limited-overs-series-in-early-2022-427627">Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years for limited-overs series in early 2022</a>

We also wanted to discuss the future as the two boards have a historic relationship and want to move the agenda towards a forward-looking one as opposed to one looking back."

"We're happy to announce that we'll play two extra white-ball T20Is on our men's tour of Pakistan in September/October 2022. We will then return after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia to complete the Test match element of that tour," he added.

Further adding in his statement, Harrison said: "This is just to reaffirm our commitment to Pakistan cricket to getting England teams, men's and women's teams, eventually playing in Pakistan at home."

"I don't think there's a cricketer in England who doesn't want to test their abilities against the huge talent this country has and in the conditions, they know best. We also talked with our colleagues at the PCB around pathway engagement, how we can support proposals around the women's game and some interesting ideas around the domestic agenda here in Pakistan," he added.

PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja: "The ECB have shown their large-heartedness to be here for which I am thankful to Tom and Martin. It means a lot to us. We are excited that England has committed to playing two additional T20Is as part of their white-ball tour in September/October in 2022."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pak-continue-to-win-hearts-as-babar-co-celebrate-haris-raufs-birthday-with-scotland-players-427612">WATCH: PAK continue to win hearts as Babar &amp; Co. celebrate Haris Rauf's birthday with Scotland players</a>

"We put in a lot of efforts to make sure that all visiting teams are comfortable in Pakistan. As such, it is a matter of pride for the Pakistan fans, who look forward to welcoming Australia and England in 2022.

England has got a great team and it's mind-boggling how they've produced so many match-winners in a span of about five to seven years. They play very engaging and attractive cricket, which is fantastic for the fans and a big advertisement of the game," he added.

England will play two additional men's Twenty20 Internationals to the five T20Is originally planned when they will tour Pakistan in September/October 2022, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Executive Tom Harrison announced on Tuesday following his meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja.

England will play two additional men's Twenty20 Internationals to the five T20Is originally planned when they will tour Pakistan in September/October 2022, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Executive Tom Harrison announced on Tuesday following his meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ramiz Raja. The men's side will then return to Pakistan in November/December at the back of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Australia 2022 to play three Tests, which will form part of the ICC World Test Championship. ECB Chief Executive Tom Harrison in an official release: "Myself and ECB's Senior Director Martin Darlow visited Lahore to talk face to face with the PCB around some of the things that have happened over the past few weeks, leading to the cancellation of our tour in October. ALSO READ: Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years for limited-overs series in early 2022 We also wanted to discuss the future as the two boards have a historic relationship and want to move the agenda towards a forward-looking one as opposed to one looking back." "We're happy to announce that we'll play two extra white-ball T20Is on our men's tour of Pakistan in September/October 2022. We will then return after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia to complete the Test match element of that tour," he added. Further adding in his statement, Harrison said: "This is just to reaffirm our commitment to Pakistan cricket to getting England teams, men's and women's teams, eventually playing in Pakistan at home." "I don't think there's a cricketer in England who doesn't want to test their abilities against the huge talent this country has and in the conditions, they know best. We also talked with our colleagues at the PCB around pathway engagement, how we can support proposals around the women's game and some interesting ideas around the domestic agenda here in Pakistan," he added. PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja: "The ECB have shown their large-heartedness to be here for which I am thankful to Tom and Martin. It means a lot to us. We are excited that England has committed to playing two additional T20Is as part of their white-ball tour in September/October in 2022." ALSO READ: WATCH: PAK continue to win hearts as Babar & Co. celebrate Haris Rauf's birthday with Scotland players "We put in a lot of efforts to make sure that all visiting teams are comfortable in Pakistan. As such, it is a matter of pride for the Pakistan fans, who look forward to welcoming Australia and England in 2022. England has got a great team and it's mind-boggling how they've produced so many match-winners in a span of about five to seven years. They play very engaging and attractive cricket, which is fantastic for the fans and a big advertisement of the game," he added.

England to tour Pakistan in September-October 2022, to play two additional T20Is