Ben Stokes Returns as England Announce Test Squad for Pakistan Tour

England have announced a formidable 17-member squad for their upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against Pakistan, set to take place in October. The squad sees the much-anticipated return of Test captain Ben Stokes, who is recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the home series against Sri Lanka.

Stokes, who has been crucial to England’s success in recent years, will lead the team in this important series. His return is a significant boost for the side, as they look to continue their strong performances in Test cricket.

The squad features a mix of experienced players and new talent. Among the notable inclusions are two uncapped players: Brydon Carse of Durham and Jordan Cox of Essex. Carse, a fast bowler, will be one of six pace options available to the team, including the left-arm seamer Josh Hull. Hull, who made his debut in the final Test against Sri Lanka, has been retained for his first overseas tour.

Opener Zak Crawley also makes a return after recovering from a finger fracture he sustained in July. His return to full fitness will be welcomed as England look to build a solid foundation at the top of the order.

The spin attack for the tour is strengthened with the inclusion of Jack Leach, who returns to the squad for the first time since England’s tour of India earlier this year. Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir will also join Leach, adding depth to England’s spin options.

The series will feature three Tests, with the first match starting on October 7 in Multan. The second Test will be held in Karachi from October 15, and the third and final Test will take place in Rawalpindi on October 24. The specific venues for the matches are yet to be confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), who are expected to announce the details later this week.

England’s squad for the Pakistan tour is as follows:

• – Ben Stokes (captain)
• – Rehan Ahmed
• – Gus Atkinson
• – Shoaib Bashir
• – Harry Brook
• – Brydon Carse
• – Jordan Cox
• – Zak Crawley
• – Ben Duckett
• – Josh Hull
• – Jack Leach
• – Ollie Pope
• – Matthew Potts
• – Joe Root
• – Jamie Smith
• – Olly Stone
• – Chris Woakes

 

The inclusion of experienced players like Joe Root, Ben Duckett, and Chris Woakes, alongside promising new talent, positions England well for the series. As they prepare for the challenge, the return of Ben Stokes and the balanced squad selection will give England confidence in their pursuit of success in Pakistan.