With the Pakistan vs England series decider well underway at Edgbaston, fantasy cricket players are weighing up which players offer the best value for the remainder of this pivotal Test, after England’s bowlers dominated day one.
Quick Answer / Key Update
Josh Tongue, who took 4 for 42 on day one of the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test, is the standout fantasy pick from this match so far, along with fellow wicket-takers Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer. For Pakistan, Saud Shakeel offers the most reliable batting returns after top-scoring with 43 in a difficult first innings.
What Happened?
Pakistan were bowled out for just 133 on day one at Edgbaston, with Josh Tongue, Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer sharing ten wickets between them. England responded with 156 for 4 to close the day 23 runs ahead, giving fantasy players a clear picture of which match-ups are working in this series-deciding Test.
Key Fantasy Picks for the Remainder of the Match
Josh Tongue (England, Bowler): Took 4 for 42 in the first innings and looks the pick of the England attack on a helpful Edgbaston surface.
Ollie Robinson (England, Bowler): Finished with 3 for 15, offering excellent economy alongside wicket-taking threat.
Jofra Archer (England, Bowler): Claimed 3 for 25 and remains a high-impact pick with his pace.
Saud Shakeel (Pakistan, Batter): Top-scored with 43 for Pakistan and remains their most consistent batting option in the series.
Joe Root (England, Batter/Captain): Steadied England’s reply alongside Emilio Gay and is a reliable core pick given his consistent series form.
Why Is This Trending?
With the series already decided 2-0 in England’s favour and this Test carrying extra context as the finale, fantasy cricket users are actively searching for value picks to maximise points across the remaining days of play.
Players to Watch
Pakistan’s two debutants, wicketkeeper-batter Ghazi Ghori and batter Mohammad Imran Randhawa, are unproven in fantasy terms but carry differential potential given their unfamiliar role in this line-up. England’s middle order, led by Joe Root, remains the safer, higher-floor option for fantasy squads given the team’s dominant position in the match.
What Happens Next?
As the Test progresses into its remaining days, fantasy contests tied to individual sessions or the full match will continue to hinge on England’s bowlers extending their advantage and whether Pakistan’s batters can offer a stronger response in the second innings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best fantasy pick from the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test so far?
Josh Tongue is the standout pick after taking 4 for 42 on day one.
Which Pakistan batter offers the best fantasy value?
Saud Shakeel, who top-scored with 43 in Pakistan’s first innings, is currently their most reliable fantasy option.
Are Pakistan’s debutants worth picking in fantasy teams?
Ghazi Ghori and Mohammad Imran Randhawa are unproven at this level, making them higher-risk, differential picks rather than safe choices.
Final Takeaway
England’s bowling attack, led by Josh Tongue, Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer, has dominated the early fantasy picture in the Pakistan vs England decider, while Saud Shakeel stands out as Pakistan’s most dependable option. As the match progresses, fantasy players should keep an eye on how the pitch behaves and whether Pakistan can mount a stronger fightback with the bat.
