England players (Screengrab)
NEW DELHI: England’s cricketers went viral for a heartwarming display of teamwork and humility on Wednesday as they were filmed putting chairs back in place after their team photo ahead of the third Test against Pakistan.
The video showcased not just their camaraderie but also their commitment to maintaining a positive dressing-room culture under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
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As the series stands tied 1-1, England will look to regain momentum after Pakistan’s 152-run win in Multan.
In the first Test, England thrashed Pakistan with a commanding 823-7 score on a lifeless surface. However, the tables turned in Multan when Pakistan’s spinners—Nauman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, and Zahid Mahmood—dominated on a turning track.
To counter another spin challenge, England have reworked their bowling combination, with Stokes confident in his spinners
Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and the returning Rehan Ahmed.
"We think the longer the game goes, the more spin will come into play," Stokes remarked during a pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
He also emphasized the importance of adapting to changing conditions on the Rawalpindi pitch, where preparations have included the use of fans and heaters to replicate the spin-friendly environment from Multan.
Pakistan’s decision to field an unchanged XI under captain Shan Masood shows their confidence, despite the unpredictability of the Rawalpindi surface, which traditionally favours pace over spin.
Both sides are keen to bat first, as the pitch is expected to deteriorate over the five days, making spin even more influential.
This match offers Pakistan a chance to claim their first home Test series victory since 2021, ending a period of underwhelming results. Meanwhile, England aim to bounce back from their defeat in Multan and end the series on a high.
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