Introduction
In an exciting development for England cricket fans, Ben Stokes, the Test captain and hero of England’s 2019 World Cup triumph, has made the decision to reverse his retirement from 50-over cricket. Stokes, who had stepped down from the format last summer, citing the need to give his best across all three formats of the game, is set to make his comeback for the men’s ODI squad in the forthcoming series against New Zealand. This comes as England prepares to defend their title in the upcoming World Cup in India. Let’s delve deeper into this significant development and explore the implications it holds for England’s World Cup campaign.
Stokes’ Initial Retirement and Change of Heart
Ben Stokes’ decision to retire from 50-over cricket last summer had raised eyebrows amongst cricket fans and experts alike. The all-rounder had claimed that it was unsustainable for him to give his best across all three formats and that the “England shirt deserves nothing less” than 100% commitment. However, given his outstanding performances in the finals of both the 50-over World Cup in 2019 and the 20-over version in Melbourne last November, Stokes’ big-match temperament was an asset that England were loath to do without.
A Highly Anticipated Comeback
The news of Ben Stokes’ comeback to the ODI format has been met with great excitement and anticipation. Stokes has always been a player who thrives in high-pressure situations, and his performances in crucial matches have played a pivotal role in England’s success in recent years. Both Matthew Mott, the white-ball coach, and Jos Buttler, the captain, were consistent in their desire to lure him back to the ODI format, highlighting his immense value to the team.
A Specialist Batter Role
Due to a chronic knee injury that has hampered his all-round abilities, Ben Stokes is expected to feature primarily as a specialist batter in the ODI squad. This injury had previously affected his performance during the Ashes series. With England’s World Cup campaign approaching, Stokes’ focus will be on contributing with his batting skills rather than taking on the all-round responsibilities. The England camp is keen on managing his workload and will not rush him back into bowling unless he is fully fit and ready to go.
Stokes’ Last Chance in the 50-Over Format
One of the key factors behind Ben Stokes’ decision to return to the ODI squad is his belief that this might be his last opportunity to win the World Cup in the 50-over format. Stokes’ love for the big moments and his exceptional ability to deliver under pressure make him an invaluable asset to the team in major tournaments. His presence in the squad is expected to provide a significant boost to the morale of the players and increase England’s chances of lifting the trophy once again.
The World Cup Squad and Stokes’ Inclusion
England’s World Cup squad, which will be finalized by September 5, is expected to feature Ben Stokes as one of the key players. The selectors have already confirmed that Stokes is a part of the 15-man squad that they intend to take to India in October. Stokes’ inclusion comes as no surprise, as his performances in the previous World Cup were instrumental in England’s success. The squad will face New Zealand in their opening match, setting the stage for a rematch of the epic 2019 final at Lord’s.
The Role of Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson
While Ben Stokes’ return to the ODI squad is a significant boost for England, the absence of Jofra Archer due to injury is a blow to the team’s plans. Despite initial hopes of Archer being fit for the latter stages of the World Cup, the selectors have had to rule him out due to the need for a “duty of care” in managing his long-term elbow injury and back stress fracture. However, the notable inclusion in the squad is that of Surrey’s Gus Atkinson, a fast bowler who has impressed with his performance in recent matches.
The Squad Composition and Reserves
Apart from Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson, England’s World Cup squad is expected to feature nine survivors from the 2019 tournament. Players like Jonny Bairstow, who returns to the white-ball internationals after recovering from a leg injury, will also be a part of the squad. However, rising star Harry Brook has missed out on a spot in the World Cup plans and will have to make his case from the T20I squad instead. The selectors have named a strong squad that showcases the depth of talent in England’s white-ball cricket.
The T20I Squad and Exciting Prospects
In addition to the ODI squad, England has also announced their T20I squad for the upcoming matches. This squad features exciting prospects like Rehan Ahmed, who is expected to be Adil Rashid’s successor as England’s premier leg-spinner. Hampshire’s uncapped pace bowler, John Turner, has also been included, showcasing his potential with a fiery display in a recent match. The T20I squad comprises players who could serve as travelling reserves for the World Cup, providing additional depth and options for the team.
Conclusion
Ben Stokes’ decision to come out of retirement and return to England’s ODI squad ahead of the World Cup defence has generated a wave of excitement amongst cricket fans. Stokes’ exceptional skills and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him an invaluable asset to the team. With a strong squad composition and the inclusion of promising talents, England will be aiming to replicate their success from the 2019 World Cup. As preparations intensify, all eyes will be on Ben Stokes and his contributions to England’s campaign in the upcoming World Cup in India.
England ODI squad:
- Jos Buttler (capt)
- Moeen Ali
- Gus Atkinson
- Jonny Bairstow
- Sam Curran
- Liam Livingstone
- Dawid Malan
- Adil Rashid
- Joe Root
- Jason Roy
- Ben Stokes
- Reece Topley
- David Willey
- Mark Wood
- Chris Woakes
England T20I squad:
- Jos Buttler (capt)
- Rehan Ahmed
- Moeen Ali
- Gus Atkinson
- Jonny Bairstow
- Harry Brook
- Sam Curran
- Ben Duckett
- Will Jacks
- Liam Livingstone
- Dawid Malan
- Adil Rashid
- Josh Tongue
- John Turner
- Luke Wood