Multan, Pakistan – In an unprecedented move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that the same pitch used for the first Test match against England in Multan will be re-used for the upcoming second Test, scheduled to begin on Friday.
The decision, made by the PCB in consultation with team management and pitch curators, aims to maintain consistency and continuity in the playing conditions for both teams. The pitch at the Multan Cricket Stadium has garnered attention for its balanced nature, offering something for both batters and bowlers, and has received positive reviews from players after the first Test.
“This pitch has shown great character in the first Test, and we believe that reusing it will provide an exciting contest,” said PCB Chairman Najam Sethi. “We’ve ensured that it is in top condition for the second match and we are confident it will offer an engaging spectacle for players and fans alike.”
The decision to use the same pitch, while unusual in international cricket, is part of Pakistan’s effort to ensure a high-quality, engaging series. While traditionally pitches are prepared from scratch for each Test match, experts believe that the Multan surface could continue to provide a fair and challenging contest as it matures with each day of play.
In the first Test, England dominated the early sessions, but Pakistan’s resilient batting effort saw a thrilling back-and-forth encounter, which was only decided on the final day. Fans are eagerly anticipating more drama in the second Test, with hopes that the pitch continues to play an integral role in the battle between bat and ball.
Both teams will be looking to make adjustments based on their performance in the opening match. England, led by Ben Stokes, will aim to build on their victory, while Pakistan, under Babar Azam, will be hoping to bounce back strongly.
The second Test is expected to provide an exciting spectacle as the players face off on a pitch that will have a story to tell after 5 days of cricket in the first game.
