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England captain Ben Stokes is expected to participate in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, set to begin in 12 days, following a positive recovery from a hamstring injury. The 33-year-old all-rounder sustained the injury while playing in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers in early August.
Stokes underwent a planned scan on Wednesday, and an England statement confirmed that his recovery is progressing well. “The results of the scans were positive and confirmed that his recovery… remains on track to participate in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.”
The three-Test series, starting in Multan on 7 October, will be crucial for England, who are looking to repeat their historic 3-0 clean sweep on their last visit to Pakistan in 2022. However, there is uncertainty surrounding Stokes’ ability to bowl early in the tour. Speaking to Sky Sports, Stokes acknowledged the challenge: “I’ve been six-and-a-half weeks now of just walking and doing stuff in the gym… There’s a lot more than just my hamstring that I need to get back firing.”
Although he is feeling good, Stokes explained the complexity of his hamstring tear, which also affected his tendon, delaying his recovery. “Rehab has gone really well so hopefully everything… gets the all clear,” he said.
If Stokes is only fit to bat, England could face a selection dilemma. They may need to adjust their lineup, potentially moving Stokes into the top five or reverting to four frontline bowlers, supplemented by Joe Root’s off-spin.
