Ben Stokes. (Source – Getty Images)
England’s cricket team suffered a major blow as captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan. The 33-year-old, who has been sidelined since early August, is still in the process of recovering from a torn hamstring sustained during the Hundred tournament.
Despite earlier optimism from the England camp that Stokes was on track to participate in the tour, the skipper confirmed his unavailability after Saturday’s training session. During the training session, Stokes was observed doing shuttle runs with strength and conditioning coach Peter Sim, followed by a stint in the nets facing spin bowlers. However, the England captain is alert about his return.
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Brydon Carse a natural wicket-taker: Joe Root
In Stokes’ absence, Ollie Pope will continue to lead the team, building on his experience from the recent 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Chris Woakes is set to play his first overseas Test in two and a half years, while Brydon Carse is set to make his Test debut.
Joe Root praised the Durham bowler’s abilities, highlighting his skill to deliver wicket-taking balls even on the flattest of decks.”He’s a natural wicket-taker. He’s got those balls in him that, out of nowhere, on the flattest of wickets, you can make something happen… He offers a huge amount to the squad,” Root said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
The England XI has two spinners, with Jack Leach making his return to international cricket since January, alongside Shoaib Bashir. Gus Atkinson, having recovered from a thigh niggle, has also been named. Stokes is expected to return for the second Test, starting October 15, though he may only be available as a specialist batter.
England squad for first Test against Pakistan
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse (debut), Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.