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Pakistan vs England 2016, 2nd Test at Old Trafford: Likely XI for the hosts

England came into the series after a comfortable 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka, but were brought down by the spirited Pakistan team, who beat them by 75 runs in the first Test at Lord's.

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Chris Woakes took 10 wickets in the match, but wasn't able to save England from defeat © Getty Images
Chris Woakes took 10 wickets in the match, but wasn’t able to save England from defeat © Getty Images

The second Test between England and Pakistan at Old Trafford, Manchester promises to be an intriguing one. Alastair Cook and his men came into the series on the back of a comfortable 2-0 win over Sri Lanka. But they were brought down by a spirited Pakistan team, thanks to wonderful displays from skipper Misbah-ul-Haq and leg-spinner Yasir Shah. Since the defeat, much has been talked about the reaction of the home side. The first reaction from England has been the recall of James Anderson, Rashid Ali and Ben Stokes back into the squad, as they gear up and look to leave no stone unturned to level the series. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Pakistan vs England 2016, 2nd Test at Old Trafford, Manchester

England may consider this game as a do-or-die, as they need to win a game to be at level with Pakistan, and another win to edge ahead. The defeat in the first Test was not shocking, but definitely surprising. The manner in which England batsmen struggled against Yasir Shah and the rest, would have been a worrying fact. Let us look at the possible England XI for the second Test at Old Trafford.

Top Order: Skipper Alastair Cook was his usual self in the first innings, scoring 81 at brisk pace. But he was dismissed early in the second innings by Rahat Ali. Yet, Cook is one of those players who would not dwell too much on the disappointment, and will be geared up for the next Test. His partner Alex Hales was a disappointment, and was dismissed on both the occasions by Rahat. His short Test career has had up and downs, so expect him to recover. READ: Pakistan vs England 2016: 2nd Test at Old Trafford: Likely XI for Misbah-ul-Haq and co

At No. 3 comes the dependable Joe Root, who is going through a lean patch. The one-down position is often considered the most important in a Test batting line-up. Root looked at home in the first innings, before letting himself down by playing a horrible shot in the second. His wicket opened the floodgates for England. He will be entrusted to do more with the bat.

Middle Order: James Vince has been given his chance to shine despite struggling against Sri Lanka, but could not do much at Lord’s despite a breezy knock in the second innings. The same can be said for Gary Ballance, who failed to impress on his Test return. His selection in the squad saw a few raised eyebrows, but his fighting 43-run knock in the second innings was perhaps enough for England to give him another chance. High on their heels will be the recalled all-rounder Ben Stokes, who adds a different dimension to the side. Both these batsman will have to raise their game should England have a chance to level the series.

At No. 6 comes the in-form Jonny Bairstow. The wicketkeeper-batsman had a wonderful series against Sri Lanka, scoring two massive centuries. He was not at the similar level in the first Test, battling it out when the others around him surrendered meekly.

Coach Bayliss has already told media that England may play two spinners in the second Test. It meant Moeen Ali is a certain starter, and gets another chance assert his authority in the team.

Lower Order: Now this is where it gets interesting. Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes are certain to start, the latter indispensable after his all-round show in the first Test. The other two spots will see James Anderson and Adil Rashid come in for Steven Finn and Jake Ball.

Controversy regarding Anderson’s absence in the first Test grew more after the loss. His inclusion will be natural, and it was made easier after another poor display from Finn. As for Ball, he huffed and puffed, took a wicket on debut, but knowing two spinners could be played, Rashid will have to start.

England likely XI: Alastair Cook (c), Alex Hales, Joe Root, James Vince, Gary Ballance/Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, Adil Rashid, James Anderson

(R Narayan is a reporter with CricketCountry, and is an ardent cricket and football enthusiast (big Manchester United fan). Having followed cricket since 2003, he likes high scoring matches as well as good fast bowling. His Twitter handle is @RNarayan24nov)

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