ENGLAND have been thrown a curve-ball ahead of Ben Stokes' likely comeback in the second Test tomorrow - with Pakistan ready to reuse the pitch in Multan.
Stokes looks set to return after missing four games with a torn hamstring, and could do so in highly unusual circumstances as the Pakistan Cricket Board prepare to use the 22-yard strip the teams played on last week.
After being hammered in the series opener by an innings and 47 runs, it appears the hosts have sought a left-field solution.
The track was flat for the first Test, with first-innings totals of 556 and 823-7 and just 13 wickets taken over the first three days.
Pakistan seem ready to gamble on a worn wicket offering more balance between bat and ball than a pristine one.
It may prove an interesting conundrum for Stokes to solve if the England captain returns to the side.
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Denne historien er fra October 14, 2024-utgaven av Daily Express.
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