Mon Oct 07 08:32:16 UTC 2024: ## Stokes Out of First Pakistan Test, Hopes to Return for Second
**Multan, Pakistan:** England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan, starting on October 7, due to his ongoing recovery from a torn hamstring. The injury was sustained two months ago during the Hundred competition, causing Stokes to miss England’s recent 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka.
Despite training with the team in Multan, Stokes revealed he is not yet game-ready, opting to prioritize his long-term fitness. “I’ve tried my hardest to get fit for this first game, but we’ve taken the call to miss this one,” Stokes said. “I’m not quite ready to play.” He expressed hope of returning for the second Test, starting on October 15, but remained non-committal.
Stokes’ absence will see stand-in captain Ollie Pope continue to lead the side. Meanwhile, England will field a number of new faces in the first Test. Brydon Carse makes his Test debut, becoming England’s sixth Test debutant this year, while Chris Woakes returns to Test action in Asia after a six-year absence. Jack Leach is also back in the team, joining Shoaib Bashir to handle the spin bowling duties.
Other key players returning include opener Zak Crawley, who has recovered from a broken finger, and pacer Gus Atkinson, who is fit after a thigh niggle. The first Test against Pakistan is scheduled to begin on October 7 at Multan Cricket Stadium.
First Piper 