England have announced their playing XI for the decisive third Test against Pakistan, set to begin on Thursday in Rawalpindi. With the three-match series tied, both teams are looking to secure a win, and England have made two changes to their lineup in preparation for the clash.

Seamer Gus Atkinson makes his return to the side, providing an additional pace option for England’s bowling attack. Leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed is also included, marking his first appearance since playing against India in Rajkot earlier this year.

Both players will be key in helping England challenge Pakistan on what is expected to be a turning pitch. Missing out on the final XI are Durham duo Brydon Carse and Matthew Potts, who were part of the second Test in Multan.

England’s squad features a mix of experience and youth, with captain Ben Stokes leading the side. The batting order remains solid with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett at the top, followed by Ollie Pope, Joe Root, and Harry Brook.

Jamie Smith retains his spot, while Jack Leach is set to lead the spin attack alongside Ahmed. Shoaib Bashir, another key spinner, rounds out the bowling lineup.

As the teams prepare for this crucial match, England will be eager to finish the series on a high note after strong performances in the earlier Tests. Both teams will be looking to exploit the conditions in Rawalpindi to clinch the series victory.

England captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the first Test match against Pakistan due to his ongoing hamstring injury as the team announced the names of the players for the series.

The all-rounder announced his unavailability for the forthcoming series after realising during the training session in Multan that he still needs more rest.

Earlier, Stokes had suffered a hamstring injury in the Hundred League and despite putting a lot of efforts to recover, he has been unable to recover.

In regard to this, Ollie Pope will be leading the team as a stand-in captain in the upcoming match.

Pope will take on the lead as England looks forward to kick off their tour of Pakistan on a strong note.

It is worth noting that the first Test match is scheduled to take place on October 7 at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

Moreover, James Anderson, is not accompanying the team on their tour of Pakistan, as he is participating in the Scotland’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Despite his absence, the 42-year-old is sharing his invaluable experience with the team’s bowlers via WhatsApp.

Considering the Playing XI, Durham seamer Brydon Carse will be making his Test debut.

Making a comeback, Jack Leach, the English spinner, will be playing Test for the first time since January.

In addition, Zak Crawley is set to return after recovering from his broken finger sustained during the summer.

Schedule:

Oct 7-11 – First Test, Multan.

Oct 15-19 – Second Test, Multan.

Oct 24-28 – Third Test, Rawalpindi.

Playing XI

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinso, Brydon Carse (Debut), Jack Leach, and Shoaib Bashir.