Event of the Day: England versus Pakistan
Our event of the day is the first day of the Test match between England and Pakistan at Headingley in Leeds. This is the second and final test of the series, after Pakistan took the first matchup, by nine wickets, behind impressive bowling performances from Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Abbas. The young Pakistan squad currently has all of the momentum after pulling off the upset victory last time out and now being the favourites to complete the sweep over the under pressure English squad. If Pakistan can finish off the English team it would be their first test series victory in England since 1996.
However England will not just lie down - they have been experiencing lots of scrutiny from the media and fans after the first test, and should be able to harness this into extra motivation. If England wish to get back to winning ways the key performers that need to return to form are bowlers Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad, and it is essential that all players value their wicket and produce a much improved performance with the bat. Another wildcard for England is the health and availability of former vice captain Ben Stokes. The all-rounder injured his hamstring during practice, and might need to be replaced by 19-year-old Sam Curran. It is set-up for a thrilling day of cricket at Headingley.
Honourable mentions around the globe go to the Super Rugby match between the Highlanders and the Hurricanes at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand. This rivalry has been tough for the home Highlander side recently, losing the last three matches between the sides. However this matchup could end differently as the Highlanders are undefeated at home this season. The Hurricanes will be a real challenge having won ten and lost just two this season. The matchup of these two New Zealand teams should be an exciting battle. Other big events continue around the world today including, day two of the U.S. Women’s Open Championship, a Challenge Cup Quarter Final game between Leeds Rhinos and Leigh Centurions at the LD Nutrition Stadium, and day six of the French Open at Roland Garros. The AFL, MLB, and NRL seasons also continue with games between the Sydney Swans and Carlton, the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox, and Rabbitohs and Sharks respectively. Lastly the 2018 Investec Derby Festival, flat horse racing event, kicks off day 1 at Epson Downs Racecourse with Ladies’ Day.
Whatever you’re watching, enjoy!
Photos by England Cricket; Pakistan Cricket