The second match of the Pakistan ODI tri-series 2026 will feature an exciting contest between Pakistan and England at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 20. Pakistan will aim to make the most of their home advantage, while England will look to begin their campaign with a victory. With both teams possessing quality batters, individual performances could play a significant role in deciding the outcome.

Pakistan’s batting lineup features experienced campaigners such as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, while England will rely on Joe Root and captain Harry Brook to provide stability and attacking intent. 

Here are the top three batters to watch out for 2nd ODI of tri-series:

1. Babar Azam

Babar Azam will be one of Pakistan’s biggest batting threats against England. The right-handed batter is renowned for his elegant stroke play, ability to rotate the strike and composure under pressure. His performance at No. 3 could be crucial in helping Pakistan build a competitive total against a quality English bowling attack.

Babar began Pakistan’s tri-series campaign with an unbeaten 39 against Sri Lanka. Although he did not convert the start into a half-century, he looked capable of anchoring the innings and helping his team navigate the early overs. He will be eager to produce a bigger contribution against England.

The 31-year-old also has an impressive record against the visitors in ODIs. According to the ICC’s head-to-head statistics ahead of the match, Babar has scored 854 runs against England, with a highest score of 158. His ability to handle pace and spin makes him a key player on the Rawalpindi surface.

England could attempt to challenge Babar with disciplined lines early in his innings before using spin to restrict his scoring options. If he settles at the crease, however, he can control the tempo and accelerate when Pakistan need to increase their scoring rate.

2. Joe Root

Joe Root will be a key batter for England as they begin their tri-series campaign. The experienced right-hander is known for his sound technique, sharp placement and ability to build an innings without taking unnecessary risks. His presence in the top order could help England withstand Pakistan’s early bowling pressure.

Root’s ODI experience will be particularly valuable in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan’s fast bowlers could look to exploit movement with the new ball. If England lose an early wicket, Root’s responsibility will be to stabilise the innings and build partnerships with the likes of Ben Duckett, Tom Banton and Harry Brook.

Root has also performed consistently against Pakistan in the 50-over format. The ICC’s head-to-head figures list 835 ODI runs against Pakistan, with a highest score of 107. These numbers underline his experience against the hosts and his ability to contribute in this rivalry.

His matchup against Pakistan’s spinners could be especially important during the middle overs. Root is adept at using his feet, finding gaps and rotating the strike, which can prevent the bowling side from building sustained pressure. If he bats deep into the innings, England will have a stronger platform for a late assault.

3. Harry Brook

England captain Harry Brook completes the list of batters to watch. Known for his aggressive approach and ability to find boundaries against both pace and spin, Brook can change the course of an ODI in a short period. His role will be important in balancing England’s need for stability with their desire to maintain a high scoring rate.

Brook will also have the responsibility of leading a reshuffled England side without Jos Buttler, who is unavailable because of a hamstring injury. His decision-making in the middle order, both as a batter and captain, could influence England’s approach against Pakistan’s varied bowling attack.

The right-hander will need to judge when to attack and when to consolidate. Pakistan are expected to rely on Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah for early breakthroughs, with Haris Rauf offering pace later in the innings. Brook’s ability to handle their speed and bounce will be tested.

If Root provides the foundation, Brook could be the batter who shifts the momentum in England’s favour. His attacking instincts make him a potential match-winner, particularly if he reaches the latter stages of the innings with wickets in hand.