Tue Oct 15 04:01:12 UTC 2024: ## England Captain Ben Stokes Returns for Second Test Against Pakistan

**MULTAN, PAKISTAN** – England captain Ben Stokes is set to return to the squad for the second Test against Pakistan, starting October 15th in Multan. Stokes, who has been sidelined for two months due to a thigh injury, has recovered and will be available for selection.

The return of Stokes is a major boost for England, who are seeking to secure a series win in Pakistan. The team has made two changes to their lineup, with veteran pacer Chris Woakes and Lord’s hero Gus Atkinson being rested. Stokes will replace Woakes, while Matthew Potts will come in for Atkinson.

England’s selection committee has opted for a strong team, aiming to build on their dominant performance in the first Test. England had declared their first innings at a record score of 817-7, thanks to centuries from Harry Brook (317) and Joe Root (162). The team ultimately secured a convincing victory by an innings and 47 runs.

“We have selected a strong team for the second Test against Pakistan. We have given Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson a rest,” said an England Board spokesperson. “We are delighted to welcome Ben Stokes back into the squad after a four-test absence. He has fully recovered from his thigh injury that he sustained in August. We have also included Matthew Potts, who impressed against Sri Lanka at Lord’s.”

The England squad for the second Test is as follows:
* Jack Crawley
* Ben Duckett
* Ollie Pope
* Joe Root
* Harry Brook
* Ben Stokes (Captain)
* Jonny Bairstow (Wicketkeeper)
* Brydon Carse
* Matthew Potts
* Jack Leach
* Shoaib Bashir

The second Test is expected to be a closely fought contest, with both teams looking to seize the opportunity to secure a series win.

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