In a significant setback for England’s cricket team, Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan due to a persistent hamstring injury. Stokes, who has been struggling with this injury since August, will miss the match scheduled to start on October 7, 2024. In his absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope has been appointed as captain once again, having previously led the side during the recent series against Sri Lanka.

Ongoing Injury Concerns

Stokes sustained his hamstring injury while playing for the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on August 11, forcing him to leave the field and sidelining him for the rest of the English summer. His inability to recover in time for the Pakistan series raises concerns about his fitness and availability for future matches. This injury has also kept him from participating in the entire Test series against Sri Lanka, where England secured a 2-1 victory under Pope’s leadership.

Despite joining the squad in Pakistan and participating in training sessions, Stokes has been cautious with both bat and ball, leading to doubts about his readiness for the demanding Test format. Last week, he indicated that he might not be able to bowl at the beginning of the series, which has ultimately resulted in the decision to rest him for the opening Test.

Impact on England’s Lineup

The absence of Ben Stokes is a considerable blow to England, given his crucial role in the team both as a player and a leader. His partnership with head coach Brendon McCullum has been instrumental in the team’s recent successes, and his experience will be sorely missed in the Multan Test.

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With Stokes out, Ollie Pope will manage a more straightforward lineup for the first Test. The playing XI for the match includes:

1. Zak Crawley
2. Ben Duckett
3. Ollie Pope (C)
4. Joe Root
5. Harry Brook
6. Jamie Smith
7. Chris Woakes
8. Gus Atkinson
9. Brydon Carse (Debut)
10. Jack Leach
11. Shoaib Bashir

The batting order features a familiar combination from the Sri Lanka series, with the likes of Duckett, Pope, and Crawley expected to lead the charge. Key players such as Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Jamie Smith will be essential in anchoring the middle order against a Pakistan pace attack that has been out of form.

Bowler’s Perspective

On the bowling front, England will rely on Jack Leach and debutant Brydon Carse to execute their spin-pace strategy effectively. Both bowlers will be crucial in testing the Pakistani batsmen, who have struggled recently.

The first Test in Multan promises to be an intriguing contest, with both teams looking to establish dominance early in the three-match series. While England seeks to capitalize on their recent success, the absence of Stokes could be a pivotal factor in the outcome of this highly anticipated clash.

As the cricketing world watches closely, England will aim to put forth a strong performance under Pope’s leadership, navigating the challenges posed by a talented yet inconsistent Pakistan side.

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