Saud Shakeel Tips Pakistan Spinners to Make an Impact in England Test Series

Saud Shakeel is confident that Pakistan can make the most of the conditions in England when they begin their first WTC 2025-27 Test against the hosts at Headingley on Wednesday.

The visitors will be hoping to carry the confidence from their recent success in the Caribbean. Pakistan defeated the West Indies by eight wickets in Port of Spain earlier this month to level the two-match series.

They then made a strong start to their England preparations by beating a Professional County Club Select XI by seven wickets in Beckenham.

Shakeel was at the centre of that win, finishing the game with an unbeaten hundred. Spinner Ali Usman also grabbed five wickets, showing that he has carried his good form from the West Indies series into the England tour.

Talking about the conditions in England, Saud believes the hot summer in the UK could dry out the pitches, which could ultimately work in favor of Pakistan’s spinners as the match progresses.

“I think with the way the summer has been here in England, the pitches might become quite dry and bring spin into it,” said Saud Shakeel while talking to the reporters.

“In the recent New Zealand series here, in the last Test, the ball was spinning plenty.” added Saud Shakeel.

The upcoming Test in Leeds will be Shakeel’s first appearance for Pakistan in England. However, he already knows Headingley well, having played three County Championship games for Yorkshire during his time with the club in 2023.

England will also start a new chapter with several changes to their setup. Joe Root is expected to take charge as captain after Ben Stokes retired, while Brendon McCullum has also stepped down as head coach.

There is still some uncertainty over whether England will stick to the attacking style they became known for during McCullum’s tenure. For Shakeel, though, Pakistan should not get caught up in how England plan to play and instead concentrate on handling the conditions properly.

“Every Test is challenging. Test cricket brings a new challenge every day. This is no different, and we’re trying to make sure we give the best account of ourselves here,” said Saud Shakeel.