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Big Blow To England; Ben Stokes Likely To Miss First Test Against Pakistan

Ben Stokes- (Source: @BarmyArmy)Ben Stokes- (Source: @BarmyArmy)

England Cricket have dealt a major blow ahead of the Test series against Pakistan, as their regular skipper Ben Stokes is doubtful for the first Test. Notably, Stokes has not played cricket since he tore his hamstring in the Hundred in 2024. 

Stokes also missed the Sri Lanka Test series because of the hamstring injury but was named in the squad for the Pakistan tour. As per reports from Cricbuzz, Stokes batted for half an hour in the nets and also bowled in the practice session, but as per the reports, he is likely to be out of the first Test. 

"I'd rather take an extra two weeks than run the risk of potentially doing something worse, and then putting myself out of the game for longer," Stokes has told earlier hinting that he would not risk his hamstring for three matches. 

Ollie Pope Likely To Lead England In The First Test

If Stokes is ruled out, Ollie Pope is the frontrunner to replace Stokes, as Pope also led the side against Sri Lanka.  He led the Three Lions to a 2-1 win against Sri Lanka. Pope did well for the Three Lions in that series. Although few of his decision came under scrutiny but the Three Lions would be looking to give him a long rope as a skipper. 

Meanwhile, Zak Crawley remarked that he is fit and available to play. Notably, Crawley suffered a finger injury and was even unable to lift a bat. But he provided an update on his injury and stated that it is as good as it can be. 

He also commented on Stokes and said, “ He seems to be going well, recovering well” but that “we don’t know just yet” if he will be able to play in the opening game of the series.  England will face Pakistan in the first Test on October 7 at the Multan Cricket Stadium.