Pakistan in trouble: Ben Stokes' participation in 2nd Test all but confirmed

England Test captain Ben Stokes finally seems to be ready for a comeback in Test cricket. Stokes missed the first Test between Pakistan and England as he had not recovered from the hamstring injury that he suffered while playing for Northern Superchargers in the Hundred this year.

Stokes missed England's three-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home and along with first Test in Pakistan. Vice-captain Ollie Pope stepped in to lead the side in his absence. Pope led England to a 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka and the victory in the opening Test against Pakistan.

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Ben Stokes set to return for 2nd Test vs Pakistan

A spokesman in England's squad revealed the information that Ben Stokes is in line for a return in the second Test match. The spokesman claimed that Stokes did some bowling and high-intensity running and his fitness will be assessed further.

“Ben (Stokes) bowled about four overs at full pace today. He has done some high-intensity running and had about a 45-minute batting session in the nets," the spokesman was quoted as saying by AFP.

"He will be assessed after today, and a decision will be made on his availability over the course of the next 24 hours,” he added.

Stokes practiced with the team on Sunday (October 13). If he is declared fit, he will straight away walk into the Playing XI and will take take up the captaincy from Ollie Pope.

Whom will Ben Stokes replace?

It wll be a difficult job for England to drop a player after a magnificent performance in theif first Test. But it is expected that the allrounder Chris Woakes will be dropped if Stokes returns. The allrounder will bat at No. 6 with wicketkeeoer Jamie Smith at No. 7

Stokes is one of the most important players in England side. Apart from being a talismanic captain, he is a capable batter and a partnership breaker with the ball.

If Ben Stokes is able to bowl, it will be a huge boost to England's chances. He can provide England an extra bowling option on what is expected to be a flat pitch assisting the batters.

England are known to announce their Playing XI two days before the start of the match but have decided to wait for Ben Stokes' fintess before announcing it. A final decision on Stokes availability will be taken a day before the Test match.

England thrash Pakistan to take 1-0 series lead

Ben Stokes has been a match-winner for England in the past. His ability to perform under pressure stands out the most. He is also credited for bring an aggressive style of play in England's Test team along with the head coach Brendon McCullum.

Meanwhile, England thrashed Pakistan by an innings aand 47 runs in the first Test match. It was a high-scoring game that looked like a draw initially. Pakistan scored 556 in thre first innings while England replied with 923-7.

Trailing by a massive margiin, Pakistan batters came under pressure and it was evident as well. They were dismissed for just 220 on the fiffth day of the Test match, marking a memorable win for the visitors.