Islamabad, Oct 5: Ben Stokes Ruled Out of First Test Against Pakistan Due to Injury
England’s preparations for their upcoming Test series against Pakistan have hit a snag with the news that Ben Stokes, the team’s star all-rounder and captain, will miss the first Test in Multan due to an ongoing hamstring injury.
This injury, which Stokes sustained two months ago during The Hundred, has not yet healed fully.
In his absence, Ollie Pope, the 26-year-old batter and unofficial vice-captain, will lead the English side for the first Test. Pope, who has captained the team to a 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka last month, is set to take charge for the fourth consecutive match.
With Stokes sidelined, Chris Woakes is poised to play his first overseas Test in over two and a half years, and his first in Asia since 2016. Additionally, Brydon Carse is expected to make his Test debut.
The final XI will be announced later today, but Jack Leach is set to return to the side for his first international appearance since January. England is likely to field two spinners, with Leach partnering debutant Shoaib Bashir. Fast bowler Gus Atkinson, who recently recovered from a thigh issue, is also in line to play his first overseas Test.
