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As England trained in the scorching heat of Multan on Friday, their fast-bowling coach, James Anderson, was over 4,000 miles away in Scotland, playing golf at St. Andrews. Anderson's late arrival highlights the challenge for England’s new group of fast bowlers, who are stepping into unfamiliar conditions. When England last toured Pakistan, Anderson was key to their 3-0 series win, taking eight wickets and helping guide fellow bowlers Mark Wood and Ollie Robinson. However, two years later, Wood is injured, Robinson is out of favor, and Anderson retired in July.
Now, five fast bowlers—Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Olly Stone, and Chris Woakes—are preparing to play their first first-class matches in Pakistan. Anderson has been in touch with them remotely while playing golf but won’t join the team until the second day of the first Test.
With Ben Stokes doubtful for the opener, Woakes is set to play his first away Test in over two years, while the other four seamers will be learning as they go. Stone also has a personal challenge, as he's due to get married next Saturday, making him unlikely to play in the second Test. England's squad will also have to adjust to the searing 40-degree heat and tight security throughout their stay in Multan.
Now, five fast bowlers—Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Olly Stone, and Chris Woakes—are preparing to play their first first-class matches in Pakistan. Anderson has been in touch with them remotely while playing golf but won’t join the team until the second day of the first Test.
With Ben Stokes doubtful for the opener, Woakes is set to play his first away Test in over two years, while the other four seamers will be learning as they go. Stone also has a personal challenge, as he's due to get married next Saturday, making him unlikely to play in the second Test. England's squad will also have to adjust to the searing 40-degree heat and tight security throughout their stay in Multan.