England cricket captain Ben Stokes is uncertain to feature in the opening Test against Pakistan in Multan, scheduled for Monday. A final decision on his involvement will be made over the weekend, as the all-rounder continues to recover from a hamstring injury.
Hamstring injury casts doubt on Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes, who suffered a serious hamstring tear during the Hundred competition in August, has been battling to regain full fitness. His injury caused him to miss the entire three-Test series against Sri Lanka, where Ollie Pope captained the team to a 2-1 series victory.
Though Stokes told Sky Sports last month that he was “feeling really good” and on track to lead the team in Pakistan, his role as an all-rounder might still be compromised. England’s first training session in the hot conditions of Multan revealed lingering concerns about his availability.
Zak Crawley provides update on Ben Stokes recovery
England opener Zak Crawley provided an update on Stokes’ condition. “I think he’s got to do a few more tests, but he’s been doing some running and stuff,” Crawley said as per The Telegraph. “He seems to be going well, recovering well from his injury, (but) we don’t know just yet. We feel ready, whatever team comes out it will be a nice balance either way.”
England have a strong squad with depth in both batting and bowling departments, giving them flexibility regardless of Stokes’ status. “We’ve got a really deep squad with plenty of options with the ball and with the bat as well,” Crawley added.
Ollie Pope likely to step in as captain
Should Stokes be unable to play, Ollie Pope is expected to step in as captain once again, as he did in the Sri Lanka series. Harry Brook would likely assume the vice-captaincy, and England would adjust their bowling attack with three seamers and two spinners.
This could open the door for Brydon Carse to make his Test debut, offering both bowling strength and lower-order batting support.
Zak Crawley set to return from injury
Zak Crawley is set to return to the side after recovering from a finger injury sustained during the West Indies series in July. “I feel brand new. I’m looking forward to getting out there,” Crawley said, expressing his excitement to rejoin the team. “I couldn’t pick up a bat for five weeks. I’ve certainly missed it, so I can’t wait to get out there again with the boys.”
While Crawley’s batting has fully recovered, he has been advised to avoid fielding in the slips to protect his finger. “It was a nasty break at the time but I’ve recovered well and I don’t feel it at all while I’m batting,” he explained. Despite feeling capable of fielding in the slips, Crawley is following the doctor’s advice to avoid any unnecessary risks.
Crucial decision awaits ahead of Pakistan vs England
As England prepare for the start of their series against Pakistan, all eyes will be on whether Ben Stokes can overcome his injury in time. His leadership and all-round capabilities are vital to the team, but England remain confident in their depth and flexibility to handle any scenario.
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