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Pakistan coach Steve Rixon praises squad's spirit ahead of Old Trafford

Pakistan celebrate their first Test victory with press-ups
Image: Pakistan celebrate their first Test victory with press-ups

Pakistan fielding coach Steve Rixon says the squad's spirit is "very high" heading into the second Investec Test match against England at Old Trafford.

Misbah-ul-Haq's first-innings century, in his maiden Lord's Test last week, inspired Pakistan to a 1-0 series lead going into Friday's match.

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Rixon believes spirit is soaring within the group and that they are reaping the rewards of extensive pre-tour preparations, including an army boot camp in Karachi.  

"The spirit is very high, and belief is high," the Australian said.

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England v Pakistan on Sky

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"[The win at Lord's] was reward for a lot of hard work - the boot camp back in Pakistan, and a lot of hard work in Hampshire.

"You can see the ability in this group of youngsters, and a couple of more seniors, and it's a pleasure to work with them - the enthusiasm they are showing, their enjoyment of the game."

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Younis Khan led the celebrations as Pakistan defeated England at Lord's in the first Test

Rixon also likened leg-spinner Yasir Shah to former Australia star Shane Warne after his 10-wicket match haul at Lords, just as England all-rounder Ben Stokes had earlier on Wednesday.

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"Generally speaking, Yasir will have a major effect in any game of cricket. It doesn't have to turn a lot for him to have an impact," he added.

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"When you have magnificent control you are in the game, and there are very few who have had that.

"Shane Warne is one, and Yasir is rightfully sitting at the top of the tree for that reason."

Watch the second Test between England and Pakistan from 10am, Friday, Sky Sports 2.

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