Ben Stokes’ Fitness in Doubt as England Gears Up for Pakistan Series
England captain Ben Stokes faces uncertainty ahead of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan, with his hamstring injury continuing to be a concern. Stokes, 33, has been out since early August, missing England’s 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka.
As England commenced training in Multan on Friday, Stokes was seen batting in the nets and bowling a few deliveries off short strides. However, it remains unclear if he will be fit to bowl in the opening match of the three-Test series, which begins on Monday.
Speaking about Stokes’ condition, opener Zak Crawley told BBC Sport, “He seems to be going well, recovering well from his injury. We don’t know just yet. I think he’s got to do a few more tests, but he’s been doing some running and stuff.”
Even if Stokes can play as a batter but cannot bowl, England faces a tricky decision on team balance. Their lineup against Sri Lanka featured five specialist bowlers, which would necessitate dropping one of their regular top-order batsmen.
Another option could be benching wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, with Ollie Pope taking over behind the stumps. Alternatively, they may opt for a four-bowler attack, relying on Joe Root’s off-spin to fill the gap.
Interestingly, if Stokes is unable to play at all, team selection might become more straightforward. Pope would continue as captain, and Smith could retain his spot at number six, leaving room for five bowlers, a vital consideration in the expected heat of 36°C.
Crawley mentioned that the Multan pitch has a “green tinge,” which might push England toward selecting three seamers and two spinners. With Olly Stone departing the squad for his wedding and Josh Hull out due to a quad injury, Brydon Carse could be in line for a Test debut. Carse might compete with fellow Durham player Matthew Potts for a spot in the playing XI.
“We’ve got a really deep squad, with plenty of options with the ball and with the bat as well,” added Crawley. “We’ve got bowlers who can bat really well, as proven in the summer. We feel ready. Whatever team comes out, it will be a nice balance either way.”
Crawley himself is making a comeback after being sidelined for over two months with a broken finger. The 26-year-old sustained the injury attempting a catch during England’s 3-0 win against West Indies at Edgbaston in July.
Although Crawley has resumed training and is fit to play, medical advice has suggested he should avoid fielding in his usual slip position for the time being.
“I feel brand new,” Crawley said, expressing his eagerness to return. “I’ve come back with a new hunger. I feel like I’ve got a lot of energy. No one wants any time out and I wouldn’t choose to do it again, but I’ve taken some positives from it for sure.”
With both Stokes and Crawley potentially returning from injury, England’s team selection will likely be pivotal as they aim to start the Pakistan series on a high note.
