
Ben Stokes is returning to England’s playing XI once again after two months. Ollie Pope was captaining in place of Stokes due to a hamstring injury, but Stokes will be seen captaining in the second Test against Pakistan in Multan. England have made two changes in the playing XI for the second Test, where Chris Woakes will have to sit out for Stokes. On the other hand, Matthew Potts has been included in the final XI while giving rest to Gus Atkinson.
England’s strategy behind the inclusion of Ben Stokes and Potts
England feels that the second Test can be a low-scoring one as this match will be played on the same pitch on which the first Test was played. Although a lot of water has been poured on the pitch, it looks dry due to the strong sunlight, so this reused pitch can help spin. Stokes has been bowling continuously in the nets and is believed to be the third seam bowler after Potts and Brydon Carse. England’s fast bowling consultant James Anderson said, “I think this is going to be a big week for the spin bowlers.”
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About Ben Stokes, Anderson said, “It is difficult to say how much he will contribute with the ball, but it is certain that he will be seen bowling quite well.”
Ben Stokes said about himself, “I am feeling good. I have worked hard to regain fitness, especially in the last phase of my rehab, and also at home. I have also undergone fitness tests, the last few days have been good for me.”
“Obviously I have to be cautious because it is a used pitch. However, we have two hard-working bowlers in the team in the form of Carse and Potts, who know how to bowl consistently. But yes, I am also available to bowl, and whenever I feel that this is the right time to bring me into the attack and I can make some impact, then I will not think twice.”
Ben Stokes, Test captain, England England’s fast bowlers had to work hard in the first Test, although despite this they got victory by an innings. Atkinson bowled 39 overs, while Carse bowled 38 and Woakes bowled 35 overs. Atkinson and Woakes have played all six Tests for England this season, so they have been given rest.
While Carse, who made his debut in the first Test, is currently fresh. Ben Duckett, who had a thumb injury, is now fit and has retained his place. After Stokes’ return, Jamie Smith will bat one place down i.e. at number 7 while Stokes will be seen at his old and favorite number.
England has kept the same spinners in their playing XI who were also part of the first Test – Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir.
England XI: 1 Zak Crawley, 2 Ben Duckett, 3 Ollie Pope, 4 Joe Root, 5 Harry Brook, 6 Ben Stokes (captain), 7 Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), 8 Brydon Carse, 9 Matthew Potts, 10 Jack Leach, 11 Shoaib Bashir
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