ISLAMABAD: Pace bowling legend Wasim Akram believes Old Trafford will have a seaming track for the second Test between England and Pakistan starting on Friday.

“The wicket will [probably] be seaming and bouncy so that England can claim early wickets by benefitting from Pakistanis’ [usual] batting problems,” Wasim said while talking to a private TV channel. “A seaming wicket will also help the hosts counter the spin element [that proved destructive for them in the series opener at Lord’s].”

Wasim, a veteran of 104 Tests, added: “The return of experienced pacer James Anderson and all-rounder Ben Stokes will also make a difference.”

The iconic paceman urged Pakistan to remain wary of an English comeback.

“Pakistan, I hope, fare well in the match if our batsmen play solidly. They must not forget that the English players will try their best to level the series at Old Trafford,” he warned. “Pakistan must remain composed and cautious if they want to avoid the resurgence of England team who are trailing 0-1 in the four-match series.”

Terming Yasir Shah as a great addition to Pakistan’s spin bowling expertise, Wasim said, “Pakistan have been successful in causing unease [for the ongoing series] in the English camp.”

The Alastair Cook-led team would adopt a very cautious approach against Yasir, who grabbed a 10-wicket haul in the first Test, at Old Trafford, Wasim noted.

To a question, he said, “Saqlain Mushtaq’s presence in the English camp will definitely make a difference as he knows ins and outs of the Pakistan team.

“Saqlain will guide the English batsmen on how to tackle spinners, especially Yasir, because he knows where and how to hit Pakistan,” said Wasim.

Published in Dawn, July 22nd, 2016