Ben backing flood victims

BEN STOKES has taken the lead as England captain in Pakistan by donating £50,000 towards the flood relief appeal.

Stokes (inset) has given his entire fees from the three-match series towards the appeal following the devastating floods that claimed at least 1,700 lives.

The England T20 squad made a donation to the appeal in September with the series sponsor Bank Alfalah also donating cash for every six hit.

Stokes said: “It is great to be in Pakistan for the first time for this historic series. To be back here as a Test side after 17 years is very exciting. “There is a sense of responsibility among the playing and support group and to be here is special. “The floods were very sad to see and had a significant impact.

“The game has given me a lot in my life and I feel it is only right to give something back that goes far beyond cricket. “Hopefully this donation can go towards the rebuilding of areas of Pakistan most affected.”