England’s talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes has pledged his long-term future to the national team by signing a new central contract that will extend until the 2025-26 Ashes tour. The exact duration of the contract remains undisclosed, but it is believed to be a two-year deal.
Stokes’ commitment is a significant boost for England, who have endured a frustrating period without his services due to injuries. The 33-year-old missed the recent Test series against Sri Lanka with a hamstring injury sustained in August. Despite the setback, Stokes is confident that he is ahead of schedule in his recovery and does not anticipate any long-term concerns.
The ECB has yet to announce the latest batch of central contracts, but Stokes’ new deal is expected to take him through until September 2026. This commitment is particularly notable given Stokes’ lucrative contract to play in the SA20 in January, which highlights his value on the franchise circuit.
However, England recognizes Stokes’ immense importance to their Test team, not only as a player but also as a leader and figurehead for Brendon McCullum’s regime. In Stokes’ absence, England have opted for a five-bowler formula, with Chris Woakes batting at No. 7. Woakes has a chance to improve his away Test record, which currently stands at 36 wickets at 51.88.
Beyond his batting and bowling, England will miss Stokes’ captaincy in Multan. He was the mastermind behind their unexpected series sweep in Pakistan two years ago, where his bold declaration in Rawalpindi defied conventional wisdom. Ollie Pope, who will captain England in Stokes’ absence, faces the challenge of matching Stokes’ proactivity in changing the tempo of matches.
Pope has experience keeping wicket in Test cricket and is one of six players in England’s XI who played in the 2022 series in Pakistan. However, he lacks Stokes’ ability to seize opportunities and influence the game through his field placements. Stokes will be on hand to provide advice, while James Anderson, who has experience of reverse swing in Multan, will join the squad on the second day.
Pakistan’s desire for surfaces that suit their seamers has piqued England’s interest, and the Test strip in Multan has a significant grass covering. England will not take Pakistan lightly, especially with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah in their ranks.
England’s clean sweep in Pakistan in 2022 remains their best series result under Stokes and McCullum. With Stokes unavailable for at least the first Test, a repeat performance on this tour would be a remarkable achievement.
