Good News For England! Ben Stokes Likely To Make Comeback In 2nd Test Vs Pakistan

Stokes to make a comeback in second Test [Source: @crickshouts]

After winning the first Test in Multan, there is more good news incoming for the England team. Their regular Test skipper, Ben Stokes, who missed the first Test due to a hamstring injury is likely to make a comeback in the second game.

As per reports, Stokes is working hard on his fitness and the England captain is most likely going to play in the second Test, barring any mishappening. Stokes suffered from a torn hamstring during The Hundred competition in August, and while he was selected in the Test squad for the Pakistan tour, he failed to recover in time and was given rest for the Multan Test.

In an interview with Sky Sports, England's stand-in captain, Ollie Pope gave an update on Stokes' health, and while he didn't mention the recovery process, Pope gave a smile when asked if Stokes will return for the second Test or not.

"I'm actually not 100 per cent. He's been training really well this week. He's as keen as ever to get playing again, so fingers crossed he's all good."

Who will Stokes replace if he gets match fit?

The obvious choice is Ollie Pope himself. He was the only batter who didn't contribute with the bat in the Multan mauling and should be excluded if Stokes returns. The other batters, including injured Ben Duckett performed, and thus won't be sidelined for Stokes.

However, England can make a bold move by removing Shoaib Bashir and add Stokes in the side. Stokes can contribute with the bowl and thus he can do dual role for the side. Plus, Bashir had an off-game, with bowl and on the field, and looked disappointing to say the least.

The third option is Stokes replaces Chris Woakes in the side. However, that can only happen if Stokes is willing to bowl. If he can play as a pure all-rounder, then he can replace underperformer, Woakes.

---

ALSO READ

Ben Stokes Ruled Out Of First Test Against Pakistan In Multan

---