The third test between England and Pakistan is commencing today on 18th August at Oval. The hosts would be looking forward to a clean sweep after their nine wicket victory in the second test. Though England had to fight hard for the win, their end success proved the gap between the two teams in terms of capabilities. England is gearing up for the Ashes and this tournament shall be a preparing ground for them ahead of facing the Australians.
Pakistan team doesn't look as confident as it used to be and carries its share of concerns. Zulqarnain Haider has been omitted from the series following a finger injury after a throw from Stuart Broad hit him. Kamran Akmal shall assume his place in the third test. Mohammed Yousuf is returning to test cricket in place of Umar Amin. Shoaib Malik would be replaced by Yasir Hameed, while Umar Gul's absence shall be compensated by debutant Wahab Riaz.
Captain Salman Butt has great confidence in Yousuf and hopes his presence will surely be a boost to the batting order. On the England side, Graeme Swann and other batsmen have displayed spectacular performances. However, Alistair Cook continues to struggle for form and the test would be a good opportunity to prove himself.
England has not lost a single match at Oval in the last eight and had claimed five of them. Also it is the same ground where four years back a game between the two teams was abandoned after allegations of ball tampering at the hands of the visitors.
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