England has confirmed its playing XI for the second Test match against Pakistan, scheduled to begin on October 15 in Multan. Captain Ben Stokes is set to make his return after being sidelined for two months due to a torn hamstring.

Stokes, who has accelerated his recovery in the past week, replaces Chris Woakes, marking one of two changes in the lineup from the first Test. Matthew Potts will also join the squad, taking the place of the rested Gus Atkinson.

As both teams prepare for a potentially lower-scoring encounter, the match will be played on the same pitch used during England's innings victory in the first Test. The surface has been heavily watered but has dried out under the sun during two days of practice, indicating that spinners could play a crucial role in this match.

Stokes has been active in training, contributing as England's third seam option alongside Potts and Brydon Carse, his teammate from Durham. James Anderson, England's fast-bowling consultant, commented on Stokes' readiness, stating, "It could be a big week for the spinners."

"I don't know about his full share… but he's still looking at contributing a pretty decent amount with the ball," he added.

The seamers faced a heavy workload in the first Test despite England's decisive victory. Atkinson bowled 39 overs, Carse 38, and Woakes 35. Both Atkinson and Woakes played in all six Tests of England's home summer and have been given a break with the quick turnaround between matches. In contrast, Carse should be well-rested after serving a ban during June, July, and August.

Ben Duckett has retained his place at the top of the order following his recovery from a dislocated thumb suffered on the second evening of the first Test. Jamie Smith will move back to No. 7 to accommodate Stokes’ return to his preferred position at No. 6.

Despite Shoaib Bashir’s quiet performance in the first Test—where he recorded match figures of 1 for 156—England has opted to retain both spinners, Jack Leach and Bashir, in the squad. Rehan Ahmed is another spin option available, while Warwickshire and England Under-19s leg-spinner Tazeem Ali is currently on holiday in Pakistan and has been practicing in the nets this week.

England Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir