Ben Stokes ruled out of first Test against Pakistan

Ben Stokes has been officially ruled out of the opening Test in England's three-match series against Pakistan, starting on October 7 in Multan. The Test captain is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in August, which has kept him on the sidelines since then.

Ollie Pope, England’s vice-captain, has been named to lead the team in Stokes' absence. Pope previously stepped in during England’s recent 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka and will now continue in the role for the first Test against Pakistan.

While Stokes travelled with the squad and participated in training, concerns over his fitness lingered. Although there was initial optimism about his return, it became clear he had not yet reached full match fitness, prompting England's management to rest him for the opening match.

The hamstring injury, suffered on August 11 while Stokes was playing in The Hundred for the Northern Superchargers, ruled him out for the remainder of the English summer. Stokes’ leadership has been instrumental to England’s recent successes under head coach Brendon McCullum, making his absence a significant setback for the team.

With Stokes sidelined, England will rely on a relatively unchanged lineup, with Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, and Harry Brook set to play key roles alongside former captain Joe Root.

Pakistan, struggling for form, will face a determined England side as they look to build momentum in the series.