England secured a resounding victory over Pakistan in the first Test in Multan, winning by an innings and 47 runs despite Pakistan posting over 500 runs in their first innings. The victory marked one of Pakistan’s most crushing defeats on home soil, with England responding to Pakistan’s 556 by declaring at an astounding 823/7. Chris Woakes, reflecting on the match, suggested that Pakistan might prepare more challenging pitches for the upcoming Tests.
The second Test will also take place in Multan on October 15, followed by the third in Rawalpindi starting on October 24. Woakes commented on the flat pitch, stating, “It had a tinge of green on day one, but it just got better and better.” He noted that it would be natural for Pakistan to aim for more result-oriented wickets in the remaining matches, especially after losing the opener. “The ball is firmly in their court,” Woakes added. “When you lose the first game of a home series, you’d expect the next two pitches to either be green or turners.”
A Triumphant Return for Woakes
Woakes made a successful return to the Test arena, his first away game in two years. He finished with figures of 1/69 in Pakistan’s first innings and 1/41 in the second. His scalps included Pakistan captain Babar Azam and opener Abdullah Shafique, who had scored a century in the first innings.
Reflecting on his performance, Woakes admitted he had not expected another opportunity to play Test cricket abroad. “I had probably given up on it, but with the backing of the dressing room and Ben [Stokes] and Baz [McCullum], you feel 10 feet tall,” he said. Woakes was realistic about his bowling average in subcontinental conditions but was pleased to contribute with key breakthroughs on a pitch that offered little for the bowlers.
He acknowledged that playing in these conditions requires patience, with bowlers often working to create opportunities for their teammates at the other end. Despite the challenging conditions, Woakes was content with his role and contribution to England’s memorable victory.
