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The second ODI of the Pakistan tri-series 2026 promises an exciting battle between Pakistan and England at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 20. Pakistan will look to continue their winning momentum after defeating Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening match, while England will aim to make a strong start to their campaign.
With both sides possessing quality bowling options, the contest could be decided by the team that makes the most of the powerplay and controls the scoring rate in the middle overs. Pakistan will bank on their formidable pace attack, whereas England will rely on their experienced leg-spinner and versatile all-rounders.
Also read: Top 3 Batters to Watch Out for in 2nd ODI of Tri-Series 2026 Between Pakistan and England
Here are 3 bowlers to watch out for in PAK vs ENG:
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi will be one of the most important players to watch in the contest. The left-arm pacer is renowned for his ability to swing the new ball and trouble right-handed batters with deliveries that angle in before moving away. His opening spell could determine how much pressure Pakistan can put on England’s top order.
Shaheen made an impact in Pakistan’s opening fixture against Sri Lanka, claiming three wickets, according to the match preview published ahead of the England clash. His performance demonstrated the value of his early breakthroughs and ability to disrupt partnerships. He will be eager to produce another influential spell against an England lineup featuring Ben Duckett, Joe Root and captain Harry Brook.
The Rawalpindi surface could offer assistance to fast bowlers, particularly when the ball is new. Shaheen will look to exploit any movement and force England’s openers to play cautiously during the powerplay. His ability to deliver yorkers and execute slower-ball variations also makes him a threat at the death.
England’s batters will need to avoid getting trapped on the crease against Shaheen’s incoming deliveries. If the Pakistan captain strikes early, he could give his team the ideal platform to control the innings.
Adil Rashid will be England’s key weapon in the spin department. The experienced leg-spinner returns to the squad after recovering from a hand injury that ruled him out of England’s recent ODI series against Sri Lanka. His availability gives Harry Brook an experienced wicket-taking option for the conditions in Pakistan.
Rashid’s variations, changes of pace and ability to deceive batters in flight make him a difficult bowler to line up. Against Pakistan’s technically sound batting order, he will need to combine accuracy with attacking fields to create wicket-taking opportunities.
His record against Pakistan adds to his importance. The ICC’s head-to-head figures list 18 ODI wickets for Rashid against the hosts, with best bowling figures of 3/47. Those numbers underline his experience in this matchup, although past performances alone cannot guarantee success in the upcoming game.
Pakistan’s batters will likely try to attack Rashid before he settles into a rhythm. However, if he can vary his pace and target the stumps, he could force mistakes during the middle overs. His spell will be especially significant if England are trying to contain Babar Azam and Salman Ali Agha, two batters capable of building partnerships and accelerating later.
Will Jacks completes the list of bowlers to watch out for. Although primarily recognised for his aggressive batting, the right-arm off-spinner has developed into an important bowling option for England in ODIs. His ability to contribute with both disciplines offers Brook flexibility when managing the bowling attack.
Jacks has been particularly effective in England’s recent ODI setup. He is also England’s leading ODI wicket-taker for the year, highlighting his growing importance as a middle-over option. His ability to bowl patiently and still attack the stumps could prove useful against Pakistan on a surface where spin may play a role.
Jacks will likely be used to break partnerships and give England a change of pace after the fast bowlers complete their initial spells. His off-spin could be particularly useful against Pakistan’s left-handed batters, provided he maintains control over his line and length.
However, Pakistan’s batters will look to put pressure on him through quick singles and boundary options. Jacks will need to avoid offering too much width and use changes of pace intelligently. If he can take a key wicket while keeping the run rate under control, his contribution could be crucial to England’s chances.
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