England has included Ahmed as one of three spinners for the decisive Test match against Pakistan.

On Tuesday, England selected Rehan Ahmed (20) as their third slow bowler for the crucial final Test against Pakistan, which will take place on a dry pitch in Rawalpindi anticipated to favor spin bowling.

Ahmed will join forces with left-arm spinner Jack Leach and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir to create a formidable spin trio when the match commences on Thursday.

The three-match series is currently tied at 1-1, following England's victory in the first Test by an innings and 47 runs in Multan.

In the second match, Pakistan utilized the same pitch, securing a win by 152 runs, with their spinners claiming all 20 wickets.

Seam bowler Gus Atkinson has been recalled, while fast bowlers Brydon Carse and Matthew Potts have been omitted from the squad.

According to a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), "There are two changes from the second Test in Multan with seamer Gus Atkinson returning and leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed included."

Ahmed, who made a notable debut by taking five wickets in Karachi during England's comprehensive 3-0 series victory over Pakistan in 2022, is making his return to the Test side for the first time since facing India in Rajkot earlier this year.

The decision to include a third spinner is influenced by the preparation of a pitch devoid of grass in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan has employed large fans and patio heaters to dry the playing surface.

England's lineup for the third Test includes:
Ben Stokes (captain), Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Gus Atkinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.

SportsLigue