England has announced its playing XI for the second Test against Pakistan, which starts on October 15 in Multan. The team is leading the series 1-0 after a dominant win in the first Test.
Captain Ben Stokes, who missed the last four Tests, returns to lead the side after recovering from a hamstring injury. England has made two changes, with fast bowlers Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson being rested for the match.
BET NOW: Bet here on the PAK vs ENG Test series and win cash bonuses
Ben Stokes returns to the team after injury
Ben Stokes’ return is a boost for England. He has fully recovered from the injury that kept him out since August and will strengthen both the batting and bowling.
Stokes missed the entire series against Sri Lanka and was also absent in the first Test against Pakistan. He played a supportive role during the first game by bringing drinks to his teammates.
Fast bowling-allrounders Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson bowled extensively in the first Test, with 35 and 39 overs, respectively. As the second Test is expected to favor spinners, England has chosen to rest them.
Matthew Potts replaces Atkinson, making his return to the team after his last appearance in the Lord's Test against Sri Lanka.
England’s playing XI for the 2nd Test vs Pakistan
The confirmed playing XI for England are:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (C)
- Jamie Smith (WK)
- Brydon Carse
- Matt Potts
- Jack Leach
- Shoaib Bashir
BET NOW: Exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses when you bet on sporting action
Pakistan, on the other hand, have also made changes to its squad. Star players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah have been left out. This opens up opportunities for new faces from domestic cricket to prove themselves.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Learn more >