In a remarkable and potentially unprecedented decision, England and Pakistan will play their second Test match on the same pitch used in the first game, where 2,123 balls were bowled and 1,599 runs were scored. The pitch, already showing signs of wear with footmarks and deep cracks at both ends, is set to host the teams once again. However, while the pitch remains unchanged, the Pakistan team will see significant alterations. Following a disappointing defeat in the first Test, which marked their sixth consecutive loss, the Pakistan Cricket Board has made sweeping changes to its selection committee, bringing in three new members, including former Test umpire Aleem Dar. As a result, Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, two of the team's most prominent players, have been dropped from the lineup. On the other hand, England may welcome back Ben Stokes, who is likely to return from injury for the upcoming match.