England Announces Squad For Test Tour Of Pakistan, Stokes Returns

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has revealed a 17-player squad for the upcoming Test tour of Pakistan in October 2024.

Some key updates include the return of captain Ben Stokes, who missed the previous series against Sri Lanka due to a hamstring injury, and the inclusion of two uncapped players: Brydon Carse and Jordan Cox.

Brydon Carse, a fast bowler from Durham, is making his comeback after serving a 16-month suspension (partially suspended) for breaching cricket betting rules. His return to the squad has been bolstered by impressive performances, including a century for Durham. He joins a strong pace lineup that includes debutant Josh Hull, who earned his maiden Test cap against Sri Lanka. Hull replaces Mark Wood, who is recovering from an elbow injury.

In the spin department, Jack Leach partners with leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed and newcomer Shoaib Bashir. Leach returns after a long hiatus, while Ahmed is fresh off a memorable Test debut in Karachi last year.

On the batting front, opener Zak Crawley has recovered from a fractured finger, while Dan Lawrence has been dropped after a disappointing series against Sri Lanka.

The first Test begins on October 7 in Multan, followed by matches in Karachi and Rawalpindi.

England's squad:

• Ben Stokes (captain)
• Rehan Ahmed

• Gus Atkinson

• Shoaib Bashir

• Harry Brook

• Brydon Carse

• Jordan Cox

• Zak Crawley

• Ben Duckett

• Josh Hull

• Jack Leach

• Ollie Pope

• Matthew Potts

• Joe Root

• Jamie Smith

• Olly Stone

• Chris Woakes