England vs Pakistan 1st Test: Leeds Clash Begins Three-Match Series

Two teams desperate for success meet when England and Pakistan begin a three-test series on Wednesday in Leeds. Neither has won a series of two tests or more in almost two years. England’s last such triumph was in December 2024 in New Zealand. Pakistan’s last was in October that same year at home against England. Since then, there has been mainly suffering. England’s Ashes series in Australia unravelled in less than 11 days. England was overwhelmed as coach Brendon McCullum overestimated and underprepared his side, and captain Ben Stokes lost faith in Bazball. England had a chance to start fresh but McCullum and Stokes remained steadfast. In June, Stokes over-celebrated a win against New Zealand, achieved on a poor Lord’s pitch, and was suspended. The no-nonsense Kiwis then took the series from behind. McCullum was sacked as test coach, and Stokes retired after a failed attempt at glory in Nottingham. Doubts about England’s leadership transition arose when Joe Root was appointed captain ahead of test vice-captain and white-ball skipper Harry Brook, endorsed by Stokes. Babar Azam was given a second stint as Pakistan captain. Shan Masood was sacked after Pakistan lost 2-0 in Bangladesh in May, equalling their worst losing streak overseas at seven consecutive tests. Babar, steady but uninspiring as captain, thrives with responsibility, with a batting average above 50. His team lost a record eighth straight test last month in the Caribbean but ended the streak two weeks ago against the West Indies in Port of Spain, restoring some confidence. However, Babar faces uncertainty for Headingley due to a hand injury sustained in the West Indies and again in a three-day warmup match last week. He will be a game-day decision, as fast bowler Mohammad Abbas stated on Monday.