Following their success on a worn-out, cracked pitch during the second Test, Pakistan is utilizing every available method to prepare the surface for Thursday's decisive match in Rawalpindi in a similar condition—with the help of two large windbreaks, two oversized fans, and six patio heaters.
The fans were employed before the second Test in Multan to hasten the deterioration of the pitch, aiming to create a surface that would maximize turn and grip for Pakistan's spin bowlers. This strategy proved highly effective, as Noman Ali and Sajid Khan took all 20 English wickets, leading the home team to a 152-run victory and leveling the series. Ben Stokes, the England captain, described the conditions as 'pretty extreme.'
'It was a team effort,' said Shan Masood, Pakistan's captain. 'I'm pleased to acknowledge everyone involved in deciding the conditions. We must determine what is best for Pakistan cricket and implement it.'
The Multan pitch had already been used for the five days of the first Test, whereas the Rawalpindi strip is new, and the ground is typically considered unfavorable for spin. 'I would prefer a turning pitch,' Masood stated on Friday. 'I'm not sure if I've seen a turner in Rawalpindi—that's a concern. We're still hoping that the sun can play its role and the wicket can be on the drier side. I believe the groundsmen are already working on it.'
The sun is doing its best to assist, with clear skies and temperatures in the low 30s forecasted in Rawalpindi all week. However, the ground staff—led by Australian Tony Hemming, a former head curator for the ICC in Dubai and author of the book 'Extreme Stadium Turf: Middle East Conditions'—have clearly decided that the weather alone will not be enough.
On Sunday, they positioned three gas-fueled patio heaters at each end of the pitch to maximize the air temperature, with a giant fan behind each to circulate the heated air across the surface. Windbreaks were also placed at each end to prevent the air from escaping, allowing it to be reheated and recycled. Pakistan hopes that three more days of this treatment will make the pitch ideal for spin, but they also worry that England might win the toss and give their own spinners the advantage.
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