'England trio's return will have impact'

Legendary fast-bowler Wasim Akram said Wednesday that the return of Ben Stokes and James Anderson will prove to be pivotal for the English cricket team when they face Pakistan in the second Test at Old Trafford.

After a thrashing defeat at Lord's in the first Test, England recalled Stokes, Anderson, and Adil Rashid for the second Test, which begins on Friday.

In an interview with a private news channel, the former left-arm quick said: "The inclusion of Stokes and Anderson will improve the overall performance of the English side. Pakistan must remain composed and cautious in next game as England may stage a comeback."

Talking about Pakistan leg-spinner, Yasir Shah, whose match figures of 10 for 141 inspired Pakistan to victory at Lord's, Wasim said: "England will be careful of Yasir Shah. Yasir Shah is a great addition to Pakistan's bowling attack."

England has taken Pakistan's off-spin great Saqlain Mushtaq on board to help them decipher Yasir for the second Test.

"Saqlain Mushtaq's presence in the English camp will definitely make a difference to Pakistan as he knows ins and outs of our national team," the former Test captain said, adding, "Saqlain will tell English batsmen to tackle leg-spinners, especially Shah because he knows where and how to hit Pakistan."

Speaking about his experience of playing in England, the 'Sultan of Swing' expressed his concern that the English curators might produce seam-conducive wickets to unease the Pakistan batsmen.