Watch: Ben Stokes left confused as Pakistani reporter asks question in broken English

England captain Ben Stokes had to face a tricky situation, not on the field but during the press conference, when a Pakistani journalist asked a question in broken English ahead of the third and the final Test in Rawalpindi.

The reporter could not find words to frame a question regarding England's 823 runs in in the first Test at Multan, specifically inquiring whether Stokes believed his team could replicate that feat in the upcoming third Test as the pitch looks a "paradise for batters".

Stokes asked the reporter to repeat the question thrice and gave a bewildered look.



Despite the language barrier, Stokes maintained his calm and answered the question. He further went to the reporter after the press conference and apologised for the miscommunication, claimed another Pakistani journalist.

The series hangs in the balance at 1-1 and the English captain on Wednesday emphasised the importance of the upcoming match, noting that the spin-friendly conditions at Rawalpindi will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome.


Stokes had faith in his trio of spinners—Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and Rehan Ahmed—stating, “We don't know exactly how the wicket will play, but we've taken as much information from it as we can."

As both teams prepare for the deciding encounter, Pakistan have retained their spin-heavy bowling lineup of Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Zahid Mahmood, supported by one pacer.

With Pakistan hoping to build on their spin success from the previous match and England looking to dominate again, the pitch conditions will be pivotal.


Stokes said that both teams would be looking to bat first, and said that spin will become more significant as the match progresses.

Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie echoed Stokes’s sentiments, stating that the near-bald pitch is expected to favour slower bowlers, meaning that Pakistan will be looking to take good advantage of their home condition once again.