Pakistan’s recent Test series against England has been a tale of dramatic twists and turns, with the home side orchestrating a remarkable turnaround after a disastrous start. The key to their resurgence lies in a controversial decision to reuse a heavily spin-friendly pitch from the first Test in Multan, a move that has sparked both praise and criticism.
After a humiliating defeat in the first Test, Pakistan’s selection panel, led by former fast bowler Aleem Dar, devised a plan to create conditions that would favor their spinners. They consulted with Aaqib Javed, a former coach and current selector, who became the driving force behind the decision to reuse the Multan pitch.
Despite objections from captain Shan Masood and head coach Jason Gillespie, the selectors pressed ahead with their plan. They recalled veteran spinner Sajid Khan and brought in Noman Ali, a left-arm spinner who had been out of the national team for several years.
The pitch preparation was meticulous, with giant fans and heaters used to dry out the surface and induce spin. The result was a pitch that resembled a “sheet of glass,” according to Dar.
The gamble paid off as Sajid and Noman ripped through England’s batting lineup, taking 10 wickets between them in the second innings of the second Test. The series turned on a dime, and Pakistan went on to win the third Test in Rawalpindi, where they again prepared a heavily spin-friendly pitch.
The decision to reuse the Multan pitch has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised the selectors for their bold move, while others have criticized it as unfair to England. However, the results speak for themselves: Pakistan has won two consecutive Tests and is now level in the series.
The turnaround has also highlighted the growing influence of Aaqib Javed, who has emerged as the de facto leader of Pakistan cricket. He has resigned from his role at Lahore Qalandars to focus on his new responsibilities as a selector and coach.
Pakistan’s success has been built on the individual brilliance of players like Sajid and Noman, but it has also been a team effort. The batters have shown resilience in difficult conditions, and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan has been outstanding.
The series has been played in a positive spirit, with England refraining from complaining about the pitches. However, the controversy surrounding the Multan pitch is likely to continue as the series reaches its conclusion.
