Liam Livingstone has been ruled out for the test series against Pakistan. Ben Foakes is most likely to take his place in the playing XI for England.
England registered an inspiring win over Pakistan on the 5th day of the first test match. Ben Stokes’s bold declaration worked perfectly for England, as they picked up a win in the last hour of the match. They also made a record-breaking first innings score of 657 at a run rate of over 6. The visitors are ahead in the 3-match test series by 1-0.
Now, the focus shifts to Multan, where the second test match will take place. Interestingly, Multan will be hosting a test match after 16 long years. However, the conditions are likely to be similar to those in Rawalpindi. Moreover, England suffered a major blow after Liam Livingstone suffered a knee injury in the second innings. He has been ruled out of the remainder of the test series against Pakistan.
Ben Foakes likely to return for England
Liam Livingstone, who made his test debut, will now return home for rehabilitation. It will take about 8 weeks for him to recover fully. England has not called in an official replacement yet. Ben Foakes is the most likely replacement for the all-rounder. Foakes missed out on the first test at the last moment owing to illness. Will Jacks took his place.
England is likely to make a few changes in the playing XI for the second test. The visitors missed out on a quality quick pacer. Mark Wood has recovered, and he will mark his return to the team. He will be a key factor for England in such conditions. Moreover, Will Jacks will have to make way for Wood.
England is leading the series and will look to consolidate the series in Multan. Whereas, Pakistan has its pride at stake and needs to turn up with better game play.
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