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Joe Root backs Adil Rashid to have "huge impact" against Pakistan

Joe Root believes that Adil Rashid will rise to the occasion in England's Test series against Pakistan if he earns a place in the team.

Joe Root has backed Adil Rashid to make a "huge impact" for England if he is handed his Test debut against Pakistan.

Rashid is expected to be named in the lineup for the first Test of the series following his impressive display in the Three Lions' warm-up match against Pakistan A.

Root believes that the 27-year-old will rise to the occasion due to his ability and experience developed in county cricket with Yorkshire.

He told Sky Sports News: "He's proven in county cricket for a long time how good a bowler he is. The way he's bowled over these past four days is as well as I've seen him bowl and I've seen him bowl huge amounts for Yorkshire over the years.

"It's really pleasing to see him in the position he is. I think it's important that we don't put too much pressure on him and think that the series edges on his shoulders because it's going to be a real team, collective effort to take on a really strong side in these conditions.

"I'm sure that if he plays he'll be thrilled to get his opportunity and make a huge impact as well."

The first Test begins in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

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