PAK vs ENG: England captain Ben Stokes in doubt to participate in Multan Test

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Ahead of England's first Test match against Pakistan, the visitors have been dealt with a massive blow as Ben Stokes is likely to be ruled out.

The England all-rounder may be sidelined for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan, casting uncertainty over his participation. The Test match is set to start in Multan from Monday (October 7).

Despite this, Zak Crawley has confirmed his readiness to compete, having recovered from a finger injury. Stokes managed to bat in the nets for a brief period and bowl a few deliveries during a practice session in Multan, yet his inclusion in the team remains undecided.

PAK vs ENG: Why is Ben Stokes in Doubt to play?

Ben Stokes is in doubt for participation due to an old injury. The dilemma stems from a hamstring injury Stokes sustained in August, which led to him missing the Test series against Sri Lanka.

Stokes has been cautious about his comeback, prioritizing a full recovery over rushing back into action.

He expressed his approach in a statement to ESPNcricinfo, saying, "I'd rather take an extra two weeks than run the risk of potentially doing something worse, and then putting myself out of the game for longer."

Amid Stokes' absence, Ollie Pope is likely to step up with leadership duties, which he honed against the Lankans recently. It will be a massive test for the visitors if they miss out their talismanic captain against Pakistan.

Both teams are already out of the World Test Championship final race, but will be aiming to secure a positive result in the series. Pakistan are coming on the back off a shocking defeat against Bangladesh, whereas a defeat in the final Test against Sri Lanka has ended England's hopes of qualifying for the WTC final.