After undergoing knee surgery in November, Stokes has not bowled in a competitive match since the second Ashes Test in July.
In preparation for Friday’s fourth Test, the 32-year-old bowled in the nets on Wednesday for England, who trail 2-1.
Pope told news Sport, “He will see how he pulls up tomorrow.” “If he’s not too sore, that’s a positive sign.”
Due to a long-standing left knee injury, Stokes has not bowled in the last three Test matches and did not bowl at all in the 50-over World Cup in the fall, despite his best attempts to be fully ready for the Ashes.
In November, he had surgery to remove a bone spur and sutures from his meniscus.
Stokes first declared he would not bowl during this trip, citing a “pinky promise” he had given to the England physiotherapist.
However, following the third Test defeat of England, the Durham player hinted at a potential opportunity to bowl in the remaining two Tests, stating he could bowl at “100%” during practise.
For the first time after his operation, Stokes faced hitters in the nets on Wednesday. Following his bowling, he had a lengthy discussion with team physician Glen Rae.
“He has taken it day by day with how his knee is feeling because he didn’t want to put himself under too much pressure by declaring he was going to be bowling.”
