Eng vs Pak, 2nd Test: Stokes-Less England Eye Win At Southampton With Sights On Series Win

England will eye a second straight win and look to wrap up the series after winning the series opener against the visitors at Manchester by three wickets. Meanwhile Pakistan would look to reverse their fortunes and register a win to stay alive in the series.

Hosts England will lock horns with Pakistan in the second of the 3-match Test series at the Ageas Oval in Southampton later in the day. The test will get underway at 3:30 pm (IST) with the toss taking place at 3 pm. England will eye a second straight win and look to wrap up the series after winning the series opener against the visitors at Manchester by three wickets. Meanwhile Pakistan would look to reverse their fortunes and for a win to stay alive in the series. England pulled off a stunning 277-run chase on the final day of the Old Trafford Test courtesy a gritty 6th wicket partnership by Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes after they were in a spot of bother plummeting to 117-5 at one stage. All-rounder Chris Woakes (84*) and wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler (75) registered breezy half tons to help the hosts hold their nerves and pull of thrilling win against Pakistan in the opening Test. Pakistan were in the driver's seat for most parts of the match but could really not capitalize their strong position largely on the back of a disappointing second innings performance with the bat.However, the young and highly talented Pakistan seam bowlers and leg spinner Yasir Shah had a good outing with the ball at Old Trafford applying pressure on the English batting lineup and taking the game to the distance. Pakistan would back themselves to make a strong comeback and would take some confidence from their good showing on their past tour. All-rounder Ben Stokes' absence in the second test will be a matter of concern for the balance of England team .Stokes has flown down to New Zealand to be with his family. Meanwhile, England have called up uncapped fast bowler Ollie Robinson as replacement for all-rounder Ben Stokes in the 14-man squad for their upcoming second Test against Pakistan. England's 14-man squad for second Test: Joe Root (Captain), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Dom Sibley, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.