England v Pakistan: 5 player battles in the first Test

#2 Alastair Cook v Mohammad Amir

Mohammad Amir

He is the highest run-scorer in England’s cricket history and although Alastair Cook has not been in great form, he is still a key player for the hosts. After scoring an unbeaten 244 against Australia at Melbourne on a pitch that was later reported for being too flat, he did not quite make any substantial score in Test cricket. He would definitely want to put the record straight in the first Test against Pakistan and start off his summer with a flourish.

The big battle that he will have on his hands is the one against Pakistan’s leading fast bowler Mohammad Amir. The left-arm fast bowler’s pace, ability to move the new ball either way and generate seam movement is something that will be a big challenge for Cook. It is going to be a battle that could have a big impact on the eventual result of the 1st Test.