LEEDS — England captain Joe Root won the toss and elected to field first against Pakistan in the opening Test of the three-match series at Headingley on Wednesday. Pakistan are being led by Salman Ali Agha after regular captain Babar Azam was ruled out through injury.
The decision to bowl first gives England’s seam attack immediate use of a Headingley surface known for early movement. Root, beginning his second stint as England’s Test captain, will hope the move pays dividends against a Pakistan batting line-up missing its most influential player.
Pakistan’s XI Without Babar Azam
Salman Ali Agha steps into the captaincy role for the first time in Test cricket. Pakistan’s final XI features a blend of experience and youth, with Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique expected to anchor the top order. Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan provide further batting depth.
The bowling attack includes Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas, both capable of exploiting English conditions. Ali Usman adds a spin option on a ground that has historically favoured pace.
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Aizaan Awais
- Abdullah Shafique
- Shan Masood
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Salman Ali Agha (captain)
- Ali Usman
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Abbas
England’s XI and Headingley Chase History
England’s playing XI includes Harry Brook, Ben Duckett and Jofra Archer, alongside wicketkeeper Jamie Smith and all-rounder Dean Larson. Ollie Robinson and Josh Tong complete a balanced attack.
Headingley has been a happy hunting ground for England in recent years. They have successfully chased fourth-innings targets of 294, 251 and 371 in their last three visits to the Leeds venue. That record underlines their confidence in batting last, even after choosing to bowl first on day one.
Pakistan’s Morale and the Road Ahead
Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said the team’s spirits were high after winning their practice match ahead of the series. The visitors will need that confidence to offset the absence of Babar Azam, whose batting average and leadership have been central to Pakistan’s Test identity.
Joe Root’s return as England captain marks a new chapter. Root previously led England from 2017 to 2022 and now takes charge for a three-Test series against Pakistan. The second Test begins at Lord’s on August 27, with the third and final match scheduled for Birmingham on September 9.
