Rawalpindi, Dec 1, The inaugural Test between Pakistan and England will commence as scheduled later on Thursday after the Ben Stokes-led side informed they had enough players to field an eleven for the clash at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
As many as seven England players had fallen sick just 24 hours ahead of the contest, but the tourists announced they had enough players to field a side.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"The ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) has informed the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) that they are in a position to field an XI, and, as such, the first Test will commence as per schedule today (Thursday, 1 December) at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium," England Cricket said in a statement, according to ICC.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
England had announced their final XI for the clash on Wednesday, but might alter their side if players are still struggling with the illness.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While England are out of contention to reach next year's World Test Championship final, the series is crucial for Pakistan as they attempt to qualify.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pakistan currently sit in fifth place on the standings with a 51.85 percentage and can still finish inside the top two places with positive results against England and in their upcoming series against New Zealand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While England are out of contention to reach next year's World Test Championship final, the series is crucial for Pakistan as they attempt to qualify.<\/p>\r\n\r\n