Second-string England host Pakistan in 1st of 3 ODIs

One of cricket’s most exciting rivalries renews this week when England face Pakistan in the first of three ODIs at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff.

The match takes place just as the UK are easing restrictions on attendance at sports events, and we could see a real carnival atmosphere in Wales.

England vs Pakistan | Thursday 8 July | Sophia Gardens, Cardiff | 14:00

To Win Match

England 21/20
Tie 25/1
Pakistan  82/100

England

Having swept aside Sri Lanka without breaking a sweat, England might be hoping for a stiffer challenge but equally wouldn’t mind banking a few more easy Cricket World Cup Super League points.

The team will bear little resemblance to the one that banished Sri Lanka with England testing their strength in depth with a side that looks more like a Lions squad after seven COVID-19 positives in their camp saw the ECB select an entirely new squad to face Pakistan.

Ben Duckett is among the few with international experience as he is afforded a way back into the international fold.

England will use the unfortunate health breach as an opportunity to test players at the highest level, and there could be as many as half a dozen debuts in their ranks.

Pakistan

While Pakistan have afforded berths to some up-and-comers they otherwise sport a strong and experienced squad led by Babar Azam.

Babar enjoys popular support as skipper even while the Pakistan Cricket Board and coaching staff come under scrutiny, but one bad series might change that outlook.

Shaheen Afridi is a bowler who could be a real handful with the new white duke in his hands and England will need to be wary of the damage he can do up front.

Fakhar Zaman has also been in great form with the bat but will need to adjust to the conditions. Fakhar has a good record in England though and will want to cash in on an inexperienced bowling attack.

Verdict: Pakistan 82/100

The tourists will kick themselves if they fail to put away a second-string England.