Cricket - England in Pakistan

Captain Strauss : Much to ponder ahead of the 2nd Test

So, England slumped to a dismal 10 wicket defeat in the first match against Pakistan, played in Dubai. Where did it all go wrong for the tourists? TacticalBet looks to assess the plight of the current top ranked team in world cricket, and cite areas for improvement in the next to games in the series.

There is a huge selection dilemma facing England in the next game. Do they decide to bolster their bowling options in Monty Panesar coming in for a batsmen (probably Eoin Morgan) or do they keep the longer batting line-up in the hope of improving on two sub-standard performances, being dismissed for 192 and 160. This was the first time England hadn't passed 200 in at least one innings since December 2010, at Perth. While the second spinner may seem a risk, TacticalBet's tip would be that England should opt for it, because they are already chasing the series. Also, Ajmal took 10 wickets in the game for Pakistan, a performance which will have caught much attention. The right arm off spinner is already 34, but having taken the most wickets out of anybody at this level last year, it a proven threat. England must go for the win in the next game at least, and could pay for this if a weak bowling attack hinders their chase for 20 wickets. Another decision to make would be whether Steve Finn comes into contention. While it appears clear that Tremlett will at least for now keep his place, he was wicket-less in his 21 overs. At 30 already, he must fear for his place with Finn only 22 and already boasting 50 wickets at an average of 27.

Perhaps the main key to success in this series, the first England have played in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, will be adapting to the conditions. It isn't too warm this time of year out there, but there will be little to no rain in the next two Tests, so this will enhance the prospect of a result. Therefore, England's men must bat long and hard, showing considerably better concentration and application that their exploits over the last few days. Cook, almost impossible to get out in the most recent Ashes series, practically threw his wicket away in the second innings, and this must improve. Likewise, Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell simply must contribute more, a return of 6 runs from the 4 innings they had is pitiful. On the bowling side of things, a lot of these Pakistan batsmen appear shaky when applied with pressure. England must keep the heat on them at all times, allowing no let ups. Being slick in the field will aid this aim.

Captain Strauss has already come out and said that England will 'not panic', but they certainly must up their game. Having worked hard to reach the number one spot, a lot of harder work lies ahead in order to stay there. The next test starts on the 25th of January.

2nd Test Odds -

Pakistan 3.3

England 3.45

Draw 2.38

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