England named their Test squad Pakistan tour

2024.09.11

Ben Stokes has made his comeback to the squad

England Test squad for Pakistan: Ben Stokes (c), 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.

England is preparing for an exciting three-match Test series against Pakistan, which will begin in Multan on October 7. The cricket rivalry between the two countries is entering a new phase with this highly anticipated series, and both sides are eager to leave their imprint before the ICC World Test Championship in 2025. Three different locations—Multan, Rawalpindi, and Karachi—will host the series, offering the visitors a variety of difficult playing conditions.

Ben Stokes, the captain of England’s cricket team, has returned to the team following his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained during the just-completed home series against Sri Lanka. An important member of England’s Test team, Stokes is anticipated to be crucial with the bat and the ball. His leadership and all-around abilities make him an invaluable asset as England attempts to overcome Pakistan’s difficult circumstances.

The batting order is further strengthened by the addition of opener Zak Crawley, who is back from an injury to his finger. With Crawley back, the top order has more depth, which is crucial when facing Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack.

Jordan Cox and Brydon Carse, two uncapped players, are another example of new potential that England has chosen to develop. In domestic cricket, Carse, a promising fast bowler, has made an impression with his pace and bounce, and Cox, a wicketkeeper-batter, stabilizes and aggressively bats in the middle order. Both players will be keen to take advantage of the chance and establish themselves on the global scene.

England has named a potent spin department that includes seasoned left-arm spinner Jack Leach, Rehan Ahmed, and Shoaib Bashir, all with an eye towards subcontinental conditions. Rehan’s youthful enthusiasm will be complemented by the developing talent Bashir, while Leach’s expertise will be invaluable in managing Pakistan’s batting lineup on turning wickets. Throughout the series, the spin trio is anticipated to be crucial, particularly on the slow and dry pitches of Multan and Karachi.

@charith rajapaksha