Ben Stokes Ruled Out, Ollie Pope to Lead England in First Test Against Pakistan
England have confirmed their playing XI for the first Test of the three-match series against Pakistan, which begins on Monday, October 7, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the opener as he continues to recover from a hamstring tear. In his absence, Ollie Pope will captain the side, having previously led England to a 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka.
Also Read:Will Ben Stokes Play the 1st Test in Multan? England Captain’s Fitness in Question
Key Updates: Brydon Carse Set for Test Debut
Durham fast bowler Brydon Carse will make his Test debut, stepping in for Josh Hull, who has been sidelined by injury. Standing at 6ft 7in, Carse is expected to add significant firepower to England’s pace attack. Spinner Jack Leach also returns to the Test squad for the first time since January 2024, following his recovery from injury, while opener Zak Crawley reclaims his spot after recovering from a broken finger.
England’s Playing XI for the 1st Test Against Pakistan:
1. Zak Crawley
2. Ben Duckett
3. Ollie Pope (C)
4. Joe Root
5. Harry Brook
6. Jamie Smith (WK)
7. Chris Woakes
8. Gus Atkinson
9. Brydon Carse (Debut)
10. Jack Leach
11. Shoaib Bashir
Recent Series Form
England enter this series on the back of a dominant 3-0 clean sweep over Pakistan in December 2022, under the leadership of Ben Stokes. The team has continued to show strong form in the 2024-25 season, winning five out of six Test matches so far.
On the other hand, Pakistan has struggled under captain Shan Masood, who has yet to secure a victory in five matches since taking over from Babar Azam. This series is crucial for Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, as they currently sit in eighth place on the points table for the 2023-2025 cycle.
The first Test promises to be a thrilling contest, with England looking to extend their winning streak and Pakistan hoping to turn their fortunes around.
