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England and Pakistan announce predicted XI for 1st Test at Headingley

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 4:03 AM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

England and Pakistan announce predicted XI for 1st Test at Headingley

Summary

England and Pakistan have revealed their predicted playing elevens ahead of the first Test at Headingley on August 19. Joe Root will lead England for the first time since stepping down as captain in 2022. Jordan Cox is set to bat at number three after Jacob Bethell was ruled out due to injury. Babar Azam's participation for Pakistan remains uncertain after a minor hand injury in a warm-up game, though he was cleared to train. Pakistan enters the series with momentum following a seven-wicket win over a County Select XI.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•First Test starts at Headingley on August 19.
•Babar Azam remains doubtful due to a hand injury.
•Jordan Cox replaces Jacob Bethell in England's lineup.
•England under pressure after losing seven of their last nine Tests.
•Pakistan won their last match against a County Select XI.

Latest Updates

4:03 AMYahoo Sports — ENG vs PAK 1st Test predicted playing XI: Likely Pakistan and England lineups as Babar Azam remains doubtful

What they're saying

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With a little over 24 hours remaining before the clash between England and Pakistan, here's a look at their predicted eleven before the match begins.
— Yahoo Sports

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