Multan: England’s cricket team welcomes back captain Ben Stokes for the second Test against Pakistan in Multan, marking his return to competitive cricket after a two-month hiatus due to a torn hamstring. Stokes’ comeback is set to bolster the English side, which is already riding high after a record-setting victory in the first Test.
According to International Cricket Council, Stokes had been sidelined since August 2024, missing England’s Test series against Sri Lanka as well as the first Test against Pakistan. His return is timely as England looks to maintain their momentum in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship, where they currently hold the fourth position.
Ollie Pope, who led the team in Stokes’ absence, will continue to play a key role, with Matthew Potts also being added to the squad. Meanwhile, pace bowlers Chris Woaks and Gus Atkinson will not feature in the upcoming match. The England lineup for the second Test includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Brydon Carse, Matt Potts, Jack Leach, and Shoaib Bashir, alongside captain Stokes.
Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir are set to continue leading the spin attack, with additional support expected from Joe Root. The team’s strategy emphasizes a strong batting lineup and a balanced bowling attack to exploit the conditions in Multan, which previously witnessed England posting one of the highest innings totals in their cricket history.
This match is crucial for England to secure their standings in the Test Championship and for Pakistan, currently at the bottom of the table, to regain some ground.