Nasser Hussain backs Brydon Carse to replace injured Mark Wood
What's the story
Former England cricket team captain, Nasser Hussain, has endorsed Brydon Carse as a suitable replacement for the injured Mark Wood in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.
The series is set to begin in Multan on Monday.
Carse, a fast bowler from Durham, is expected to make his Test debut following an impressive performance in England's white-ball matches against Australia last month.
Debut anticipation
Wood's absence creates opportunity for Carse
Wood, who played a significant role in England's 3-0 victory over Pakistan in 2022, has been sidelined due to an elbow injury.
His absence until the end of this year opens up an opportunity for Carse.
Hussain expressed his confidence in Carse's abilities to Sky Sports News, stating "I think someone like Brydon Carse can do that Mark Wood role."
He further praised Carse's rhythm and pace during the white-ball cricket matches.
Comeback story
Carse's return to cricket after betting rule violation
Carse had been absent from the domestic summer for three months due to a suspension for historical breaches of betting rules. He made his comeback in late August, playing for Durham.
The 29-year-old South African-born player participated in all five of England's ODIs against Australia, taking three wickets twice despite England's 3-2 series loss.
Squad selection
England's pace options for Pakistan Test series
England's pace attack for the Pakistan Test series will include Gus Atkinson, Chris Woakes, Matthew Potts, and Olly Stone. However, young player Josh Hull will miss out due to a quad injury.
Hussain highlighted Atkinson's performance as "player of the summer," and praised Carse's express pace and skill as crucial assets for England on flat pitches.
Strategy insights
England's spin options and Pakistan's recent form
In the spin department, England captain Ben Stokes will have Shoaib Bashir, Rehan Ahmed, and veteran Jack Leach at his disposal.
Despite Pakistan's recent 2-0 home series loss to Bangladesh and a five-match winless streak in Tests, Hussain warned that it won't be "easy" for England to secure another victory.
He described Pakistan as "a mercurial side that have ups and downs," but emphasized their potential to bounce back from their current low point in all formats.