Wed Oct 09 09:03:25 UTC 2024: ## England Aim for Series Win with New Pace Attack Against Struggling Pakistan
**Multan, Pakistan** – England will be looking to challenge a struggling Pakistan side with a revamped pace attack in the first test of a three-match series, starting in Multan on Monday.
The England team will be led by Ollie Pope, who guided the team to a 2-1 home series victory against Sri Lanka in the absence of the injured Ben Stokes. Stokes will miss his fourth consecutive test due to a hamstring injury, but is expected to return for the second test.
The biggest change for England is the inclusion of fast bowler Brydon Carse, who will make his test debut. Carse’s pace gave him the edge over other contenders for the tour, and England hopes he will regularly clock over 90 mph, challenging the Pakistani batsmen.
Joining Carse in the pace attack is Gus Atkinson, who will play his first overseas test after an impressive home season. All-rounder Chris Woakes will also return after a two-and-a-half year absence, playing his first test in Asia since 2016.
England will also rely on spinners Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir, who will be crucial in the anticipated hot and dry conditions in Multan.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will be hoping to turn their fortunes around after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Bangladesh in their last series. They will be looking to Aamer Jamal, who returns after recovering from a back injury, to bolster both their batting and bowling.
Despite their recent struggles, Pakistan captain Shan Masood remains confident, stating that they have a clear plan to tackle England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach.
The first test promises to be a thrilling encounter as both sides look to gain an early advantage in the series.
First Piper 