Multan
Ben Stokes makes his comeback to the England Test team on Monday as he was named in the playing XI for the second Test against Pakistan, set to begin today. The 33-year-old all-rounder had been sidelined since August due to a hamstring injury, but after a full recovery, he is back to lead the side.
Stokes replaces Chris Woakes in one of two changes from the England team that won the first Test by an innings and 47 runs. Fast bowler Matthew Potts also returns, taking the place of Gus Atkinson. Despite missing the first Test, Stokes trained intensively, with the team management confirming he had batted and bowled comfortably in the nets.
England has decided to retain their two-spinner strategy, with Shoaib Bashir and Jack Leach continuing in the lineup. Young wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who held the number seven spot in the previous match, will remain there, while Stokes slots in at number six.
The Multan pitch, which hosted the opening Test, will see action again for the second match. With Stokes back in the mix, he will provide a third seam bowling option alongside his Durham teammates, Matthew Potts and Brydon Carse. England’s bowlers, including Atkinson, Carse, and Woakes, shouldered a significant workload in the first match, delivering a combined 112 overs to secure the win.
BOX
England XI for the Second Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.
