Ben Stokes undergoes surgery, eyes return in Pakistan series

England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who underwent a successful surgery for a cartilage tear in his left knee, is expecting to regain full fitness before a four-match Test series against Pakistan, which begins on July 14.

According to the Mirror, the 24-year-old will receive his rehabilitation schedule today and should be back in business for the opening Test at Lord's.

Stokes failed to recover from the injury sustained during the opening match of the three-Test series against Sri Lanka at Headingley. He was forced to spend the majority of the second innings off the field having treatment.

The second Test against Angelo Mathews' side at Chester-le-Street which begins on Friday will be the first that Stokes has missed since being recalled against West Indies early last year.

Meanwhile, bowling all-rounder Chris Woakes has been called in to replace Stokes in the squad.

England are leading the three-match series 1-0 after defeating Sri Lanka by an innings and 88 runs inside three days in the first Test in Leeds.