MCCULLUM: A TESTING TIME FOR STOKES

Brendon wants support for skipper

- RORY DOLLARD

BRENDON MCCULLUM has called for his England side to "wrap our arms around" captain Ben Stokes.

Stokes has proved an intuitive and inspirational leader during two-and-ahalf years in charge.

But head coach McCullum believes the time has come for the dressing room to pick up the slack and show their support following the 2-1 series defeat in Pakistan.

Since overseeing a 3-0 whitewash of the West Indies in July, Stokes has experienced arguably his most challenging spell since taking over from Joe Root.

He suffered a torn hamstring during a rare outing in The Hundred, forcing him out of an entire series against Sri Lanka and the innings win in the first Test at Multan.

Having completed a demanding rehabilitation programme, he returned in time for Pakistan to hit back with two heavy victories on bigspinning wickets.