Ben Stokes’ ongoing injury troubles have struck again as the England Test captain has been ruled out of the opening Test of the three-match series against Pakistan in Multan. Stokes continues to recover from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since August. After missing the entire Test series against Sri Lanka, concerns over his fitness have also cast a shadow over this highly anticipated clash against Pakistan.
The 33-year-old all-rounder missed England’s recent 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka, with vice-captain Ollie Pope stepping up to lead the side in his absence. As England released their Playing XI for the Multan Test, Pope has been named captain once again for the Pakistan series, where he will aim to guide the Three Lions against a Pakistan team that has struggled with form recently.
“With England Captain Ben Stokes still recovering from a hamstring tear, Ollie Pope will captain the side in his absence,” England’s statement said.
Despite travelling with the squad and participating in training sessions, Stokes has been careful with both bat and ball, raising doubts about his fitness level. Last week, Stokes hinted that he might not be able to bowl at the beginning of the series, which begins on Monday, October 7.
