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.
This story is from the October 14, 2024 edition of Daily Express.
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This story is from the October 14, 2024 edition of Daily Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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