Ben Stokes Faces Fitness Test Before Pakistan Tour

Ben Stokes will undergo a scan on his hamstring injury next week as England assesses his fitness for the upcoming Test series in Pakistan. The 33-year-old all-rounder sustained the injury at the start of August and missed England’s 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka. Despite his absence, Stokes has actively trained and participated in various activities. Recently, Stokes completed an extensive net session at Durham’s Chester-le-Street.

He also took part in the Celebrity Pro-Am at the PGA Championship at Wentworth. The scan will monitor Stokes’ recovery progress and not address a new issue. The first Test of the three-match series is set to begin on October 7. Stokes has emphasized his cautious approach to returning. He prefers to take extra time to avoid aggravating the injury and potentially sidelining himself longer.

He expressed his intent to do everything necessary to be fit for the series opener. England has named Stokes as captain of their 17-man squad for the tour which will depart on October 1. If he becomes unavailable for the first Test, Ollie Pope will act as captain. In Stokes’ absence during the Sri Lanka series, England adjusted their lineup by promoting wicketkeeper Jamie Smith to number six and including an extra bowler.

If Ben Stokes can only bat, England will face a selection dilemma.  They will need to decide whether to fit him into the top order or use four frontline bowlers and rely on Joe Root’s off-spin, as they did in India. Uncertainty remains about the venues for the three Tests. The series originally scheduled for Karachi, Rawalpindi and Multan might shift due to construction delays in Karachi.

Speculation suggested the UAE as an alternative venue but the series will likely remain in Pakistan.  However, the locations may still see some adjustments. England previously achieved a 3-0 series victory in Pakistan in 2022 marking a historic clean sweep.