Ben Stokes Returns for Second Test in Multan

Ben Stokes, England captain has confirmed he is fit to play in the second Test against Pakistan in Multan, joining pace bowler Matthew Potts in the lineup. Stokes and Potts replace Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson from the team that achieved a record-breaking win in the first Test. The second Test starting on Tuesday will take place on the same pitch used previously.

In a surprising move, Pakistan has named three frontline spinners in their squad leaving out former captain Babar Azam and pace bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah. Pakistan’s selection committee which includes captain Shan Masood, coach Jason Gillespie and ex-captain Azhar Ali conducted a lengthy meeting to finalize their choices during Monday’s training session.

Stokes, returning to Test cricket for the first time since July due to a hamstring injury, expressed confidence in his fitness after rigorous preparations, including sprints and bowling in the nets. He emphasized the importance of being ready to bowl effectively, stating, “I’m available to bowl… there won’t be any doubts in my mind that I can bowl.”

The pitch selection aims to favor bowlers following a previous match dominated by batters where England declared with a staggering 823-7, marking Pakistan’s record for the highest total lost by an innings. Ben Stokes acknowledged that his team would seek advantages at home if necessary.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s assistant coach Azhar Mahmood noted that using the worn pitch aims to secure 20 England wickets, emphasizing their strategy to exploit home conditions. Victory for England would secure a second consecutive series win in Pakistan after their 3-0 triumph in 2022.