PAK VS ENG: ENGLAND SKIPPER BEN STOKES TO UNDERGO SCAN AHEAD OF TEST SERIES IN PAKISTAN | REPORT

England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to undergo a scan on his hamstring injury next week ahead of the first Test in Pakistan, according to recent reports. Stokes sustained the injury last month while playing for Northern Superchargers in the Hundred against Manchester Originals. The injury occurred as he sprinted for a quick single early in the Superchargers' chase, after which he collapsed, clutching his left leg.

Following the incident, Stokes was assisted off the field and later returned to the dugout on crutches. The injury ruled him out of the Test series against Sri Lanka, and concerns have been raised about his availability for the upcoming tour of Pakistan. The scan results will be crucial in determining whether Stokes can lead England in the Test series or if the injury will require a longer recovery period.

The scan is planned as part of monitoring the all-rounder's recovery rather than a reaction to any setback to the injury, as per a BBC report.

Despite the injury, Stokes has been named as captain of the 17-man squad for Pakistan Tests with the first game in the three-match series due to begin on October 7.

If Stokes is ruled out of the first Test, Ollie Pope would continue to deputise as captain. In Stokes' absence from the Sri Lanka series, Pope was the stand-in captain for the English side.Meanwhile. the venues for the three-match series in Pakistan are yet to be confirmed. The matches were due to take place in Karachi, Rawalpindi and Multan, but building work in Karachi is likely to leave that stadium unavailable.

The announcement regarding the venue expected from the Pakistan Cricket Board is yet to be made.

Inputs from IANS