England vs Pakistan 3rd Test Prediction

If PAK Bat First

Predicted Score: Around 250

Batting has always been a worry for them and their top order has been vulnerable in this series as well. Only Mohammad Hafeez has looked promising with two scores in 40s. However, it is their captain Misbah-ul-Haq who is going to be the key in the middle order. He has a century and a fifty in the series and he has been well supported by Asad Shafiq. Hafeez, Younis, Misbah and Shafiq will have to score if Pakistan are to get past 250.

With Ben Stokes ruled out due to injury, England will now have to rely on the pace of Anderson, Broad and Woakes. Their pace attack looks even stronger with Wokes being among the wickets. He has taken 18 wickets already and is leading the 'most wickets' column. Moeen Ali took five wickets in the last test and he could be effective if the wicket offers something for the spinners. Pakistan's batsmen could struggle if England's faster bowlers keep chipping away at the wickets.  

Eng vs Pak Head-to-Head Record

In the last ten test matches on English soil, England have seven wins while Pakistan only have two wins. One of these games ended in a draw. The two teams have played each other seven times at Edgbaston with England winning four games and the rest resulting in a draw. Pakistan have yet to register a win against England at this ground. 

Our Prediction

After being humbled by Pakistan in the first test, England won the second test by a huge margin to show that they are a tough side to beat in their own backyard. Moreover, Edgbaston has become their fortress as they have faced only one defeat here in cricket's longest format since 2002.

Pakistan should be well in the game if their bowlers are able to back them up with a strong performance. But taking into account England's test record at this ground, we feel that the hosts are better placed to win the third test.