Ollie Pope to lead the team as Ben Stokes opted out due to injury in First Test
Ben Stokes Out Due to Injury, Ollie Pope to Lead in First Test
Zak Crawley has declared himself fit for the first game in Multan, but the regular test captain Ben Stokes is out from the first test.
As England’s Test captain, Ben Stokes, was doubtful for Monday’s opening Test against Pakistan in Multan, the team must make a critical fitness decision. Stokes took part in a restricted role in Friday’s training session, but he was still unclear if he would be available for the game or not. A decision has been made today that he will not be part of the 1st test.
Stokes’ Injury and Recovery
After damaging his left hamstring during the August Hundred, Stokes was unable to play in England’s Test series against Sri Lanka. In an attempt to be ready for the Pakistan series, he has been focusing on his recoveries. Stokes stressed his careful attitude in a talk with ESPNcricinfo, saying, “I’d rather take an extra two weeks than risk doing something worse and being out longer.”
Ollie Pope to lead the team instead of Ben Stokes
Ollie Pope, who led England to a 2-1 victory in the Sri Lanka series, is going to take over the captain role. A chance for Chris Woakes to play in a Test match abroad for the first time in more than two years could occur due to Stokes’ absence, which would give the side a much-needed bat-and-bowl balance.
Zak Crawley Declares Full Fitness and Preparedness
Positive news for England is that opener Zak Crawley, who missed the Sri Lanka series due to a fractured finger, has announced he is back to full wellness. Crawley declared, “I feel like a new person. I’m excited to go outside with the guys once more since I’ve really missed it.” As a precaution, Crawley won’t be fielding in the slips, but he is excited to play again following his last match in July. Given his responsibility for establishing the tone at the top of the order, Crawley’s comeback will be vital for England. He wants to build on his remarkable performance from the previous tour to Pakistan, which included an 86-ball century in the Rawalpindi test.
England’s Preparations in Multan
England warmed up in the oppressive 38°C on Friday during their first training session in Multan. Before the Test, they won’t play practice matches, but Crawley thinks the team is prepared, with or without Stokes. “We’ve got a really deep squad… Whatever team comes out, it will be a nice balance either way,” Crawley stated.
