England were 8-1 in last 12 Tests with several innings victories.

England were BBC SPOTY team of year 2011.

Ashes holders home and away. Winning 3-1 the previous winter.

Only the fifth time Pakistan have inflicted a whitewash.

England were number 1 in all 3 formats later that year.

Misbah had won 6 of his last 8 Tests with no loss, skeptics saying "wait till England."

England won both warm ups too. 3 day games to commence 56 day trip.

Favourites were England for Udal, Cork and Hughes.