Pakistan Uses Heaters to Prepare Spin-Friendly Pitch for Third Test

Pakistan is preparing the pitch for the Third Test by using heaters, despite temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. This strategy aims to create a dry, turning surface that will favor their spin bowlers. To further assist this process, two large industrial fans have been set up to dry the 22-yard pitch in Rawalpindi similar to the approach taken before the Second Test in Multan where England lost by 152 runs.

England captain Ben Stokes humorously likened the fans to umpires, noting their strategic placement at the pitch’s ends. The heaters resembling patio units are a novel method for drying the pitch with three heaters positioned at each end. Pakistan’s captain Shan Masood expressed his hope for a dry pitch, as less moisture increases the chances of the ball turning.

The weather forecast for Rawalpindi predicts continuous sunshine for the upcoming week maintaining high temperatures. In the previous match held in Multan, Pakistan spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali made history by becoming the first duo since 1956 to claim 20 wickets in a Test match a feat last achieved by England’s Jim Laker and Tony Lock.

As the Third Test approaches, Stokes is eager to win the coin toss to bat first and is considering the inclusion of leg spinner Rehan Ahmed to bolster the spin attack. Meanwhile, New Zealand secured their first Test victory on Indian soil since 1988, overcoming a tense chase to defeat India by eight wickets. They reached 110 for two on a rain-affected final day, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.