PAK vs ENG: Ben Stokes Out of 1st Test vs Pakistan, Ollie Pope Named Captain
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England’s star all-rounder, Ben Stokes, has been ruled out of the first Test match against Pakistan. Stokes is still recovering from a hamstring injury and will miss the opener of the three-match series.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the news on Saturday, October 5, via a post on X (formerly Twitter). The first Test will take place at the Multan Cricket Stadium, starting Monday, October 7.
Ollie Pope to Lead England in Stokes’ Absence
With Stokes unavailable, Ollie Pope has been named captain for the match. Pope recently led England to a 2-1 series victory against Sri Lanka and will now take charge against Pakistan. The ECB officially announced the squad for the opening Test.
Team Changes and Key Players
Several notable changes have been made to England’s lineup. Zak Crawley, who missed the recent Sri Lanka series due to injury, is back in the squad. Spinner Jack Leach also returns, having last played for England in January 2024 during their series against India. Leach has been out for several months due to injury but is now fully fit and ready to play.
Another significant inclusion is Durham pacer Brydon Carse, who will be making his Test debut in Multan. Carse steps in for Josh Hull, who was ruled out of the series due to injury.
England’s Playing XI for the 1st Test:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir
The absence of Ben Stokes is a major blow, but England will be hoping their well-balanced side can rise to the challenge in Multan. All eyes will be on Ollie Pope’s leadership and the performance of debutant Brydon Carse as they take on Pakistan in this crucial Test series opener.
Read Original Content: PAK vs ENG: Ben Stokes Out of 1st Test vs Pakistan, Ollie Pope Named Captain
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