The England-Pakistan Test rivalry enters a new phase when the three-match series gets underway on August 19 at Headingley in Leeds. With both sides searching for consistency and valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, the series promises plenty of intrigue. England are beginning life after Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, while Pakistan have restored Babar Azam as their Test captain as both teams look to turn the page and build momentum.

England begin a new chapter under Joe Root

England’s Test setup has undergone a major transformation following Stokes’ retirement from red-ball cricket and McCullum’s departure as head coach. Joe Root has returned as the permanent Test captain, bringing considerable experience to a team entering a transitional period.

Marcus Trescothick is currently overseeing the side as interim coach before Stephen Fleming takes charge. Root has already made his mark by introducing changes to the team’s approach, including the removal of England’s midnight curfew. The move reflects an attempt to give players greater freedom while maintaining accountability within the squad.

England will also have to deal with the absence of Jacob Bethell, who is unavailable because of injury. His absence could provide Jordan Cox with an opportunity to slot into the top order, potentially adding another dimension to England’s batting lineup.

Pakistan’s Babar Azam faces fitness test

Pakistan have also made a significant leadership change ahead of the series. Following a difficult spell under Shan Masood, Babar was reinstated as Test captain in July 2026. He will be hoping to recreate some of the confidence generated by Pakistan’s memorable home victories over England in 2024. However, Babar’s own participation in the opening Test has become a concern. The Pakistan captain suffered a finger or hand injury during a warm-up fixture at Beckenham. Although he returned briefly to practice in the nets, his fitness remains a late selection issue ahead of the Headingley Test.

Pakistan did receive some encouragement from their recent warm-up victory over a Professional County Club Select XI, with Saud Shakeel producing an unbeaten century. The performance will provide the visitors with confidence before the much tougher challenge against England.

Key battles could decide the series

One of the most fascinating contests could involve Root and Pakistan spinner Sajid Khan. Sajid’s heavy over-spin caused problems for England’s batters during their previous meetings in late 2024, and Root’s ability to counter him could prove crucial in the middle overs.

At the other end, Babar could face a stern examination from Jofra Archer if the Pakistan captain is cleared to play. Archer’s express pace, high release point and ability to extract movement could make him a particularly difficult proposition at Headingley, where conditions can assist seam bowling.

Also READ: Ollie Pope returns as England unveil squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan

WTC points add extra pressure

Neither side can afford to overlook the importance of this series. England currently occupy seventh place in the World Test Championship standings, with Pakistan just behind them in eighth. With only the top two teams qualifying for the 2027 WTC Final, every available point carries significant weight.

A strong result across the three Tests could therefore provide either team with a much-needed boost in the standings. With leadership changes, injury concerns and several intriguing individual battles, England vs Pakistan promises to be more than just another Test series—it could be a crucial turning point in both teams’ WTC campaigns.

ENG vs PAK, Test Series, Full schedule

Broadcast and Live Streaming details:

• United Kingdom: Sky Sports
• India: Sony Sports Network; Sony LIV
• Pakistan: PTV Sports, Ten Sports; Tamasha and Tapmad
• USA and Canada: Sling TV – Willow TV (sign up here)
• Australia: Fox Sports
• South Africa: SuperSport
• MENA: Cricbuzz 2
• Bangladesh: Tapmad

Also READ: Babar Azam’s England Test preparations hit by hand injury scare