England announce playing XI for first Test against Pakistan

Ollie Pope takes charge as stand-in captain, after regular skipper Ben Stokes was ruled out due to an injury.

England have announced their playing XI for the opening Test of the three-match series against Pakistan, which is set to begin on October 7 at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

With regular captain Ben Stokes ruled out due to an ongoing hamstring injury, Ollie Pope will take charge as the stand-in captain.

One of the most notable selections is Durham seamer Brydon Carse, who is set to make his Test debut, adding fresh energy to England’s bowling attack.

Additionally, spinner Jack Leach returns to the Test fold after a lengthy absence, while Zak Crawley has recovered from a broken finger and will feature in the top order.

This Test marks the first of three in a series that promises to be fiercely contested, with Pakistan led by Shan Masood. England’s lineup includes a mix of experienced players and newcomers, with Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Chris Woakes providing stability to the middle order.

England Playing XI for first Pakistan Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse (Debut), Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.

The series schedule is as follows:

• Oct 7-11: First Test, Multan
• Oct 15-19: Second Test, Multan
• Oct 24-28: Third Test, Rawalpindi