'Will see how he pulls up tomorrow': England vice-captain Ollie Pope on Ben Stokes rolling his arm over

Both India and England are gearing up for the fourth Test in Ranchi, India is aiming to seal the series, while England is citing a comeback in the five-match series. The anticipation surrounding the match has intensified with the possibility of England's captain, Ben Stokes, stepping up to bowl.

Recently, England's team vice-captain Ollie Pope expressed optimism, suggesting that there is a chance that Stokes might bowl in this crucial encounter against India. England's deputy also believes that if Stokes is able to turn up well in the nets on the day prior to the fourth Test, chances are that he will roll his arm over once again and return to his all-round duties once again.

"He will see how he pulls up tomorrow, If he's not too sore, that's a positive sign,” Pope told BBC Sport.

Stokes has been away from bowling since the second Ashes Test in July 2023. The 32-year-old cricketer went through knee surgery in November. The star all-rounder refrained himself from bowling in the last three Tests and was notably absent from the 50-over World Cup in India last year. The ace batter highlighted Stokes' cautious approach, indicating that he has been evaluating his knee's condition on a day-by-day basis.

The surgery in November aimed to address a left knee issue, involving the removal of bone spurs and stitches in his meniscus. Initially, the English skipper had ruled out bowling on this tour, citing a promise made to the England physio. However, after England's recent defeat in the third Test, Stokes hinted at the possibility of bowling in the final two encounters in Ranchi and Dharamsala.

“He didn't want to put himself under too much pressure early by saying he's going to be bowling, so he's played it day by day with how his knee is feeling,” said Pope.

“I think he's been impressed by how his knee has been going. He's had a good bowl against our batters. We know what he's like, he's got that competitive edge. There's every chance he'll bowl, but he's not confirmed it yet," he added.

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In a recent practice session, Stokes was seen bowling at the nets for the first time since his surgery, engaging in a bowling session followed by a discussion with team doctor Glen Rae. 

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