'Winning in England is never easy' - Woolmer

Bob Woolmer, the Pakistan coach, warned his players to expect some stiff resistance from England, especially after their disappointing Test series against Sri Lanka.

England began the series as favourites but had to settle for 1-1 in the three-Test series after a spirited fightback by Sri Lanka in the final Test at Trent Bridge. However, Woolmer doesn't expect any easy offerings when Pakistan begin their tour, keeping in mind that England would be determined to bag a comprehensive win at home before heading to Australia in their bid to retain the Ashes.

"England's show against Sri Lanka means nothing for us", Woolmer told Reuters. "It is not our divine right to win and we will have to play very well to beat them. Winning in England is never easy."

The England side suffered a huge setback after Andrew Flintoff and Simon Jones got sidelined due to injuries. Pakistan too had their share of bad news with Shoaib Akhtar, their key fast bowler, failing to make the Test squad because of an ankle injury which failed to heal in time. However, Woolmer saw this as an opportunity for the other fast bowlers to carry the load with merit.

"I think the writing was on the wall for us as far as his injury is concerned and we have to play without his pace," Woolmer said. "However, we have played without him in the past and managed. It is a good opportunity for others to be counted."