Ben Stokes: England’s star all-rounder, Ben Stokes, has chosen to overturn his previous decision to retire from one-day internationals (ODI). As announced by the country’s cricket board on Wednesday, Stokes has been added to the squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand.
Ben Stokes marks comeback to the National side
Stokes had announced his retirement from ODIs in July of the previous year, a mere two months after assuming the role of England’s test captain. This change of heart now provides him with the opportunity to participate in the forthcoming 50-overs World Cup, where England aims to defend their title in the months of October and November. National Selector Luke Wright said, “I am certain that every fan will enjoy seeing (Stokes) back in an England ODI shirt again.”
In a fresh development, uncapped Surrey pace bowler Gus Atkinson has been included in the 15-man ODI squad for the upcoming New Zealand series. Furthermore, a trio of newcomers, namely Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and John Turner, have earned their first-time call-ups to the T20I squad.
Stokes earned the coveted title of Player of the Match during the 2019 World Cup final held on home soil. In a gripping super over, he delivered an exceptional performance, contributing an unbeaten 84 as England triumphed over New Zealand. His match-winning unbeaten knock of 52 guided England to victory over Pakistan in the T20 WC final held in Melbourne last year.
Ben Stokes’ impressive records
Since making his debut against Ireland in 2011, Stokes has participated in 105 ODIs, amassing 2,924 runs, which include three centuries. He holds an impressive batting average of 38.98 and a striking strike rate of 95. In addition to his batting prowess, he also has 74 wickets.
England Tour of New Zealand and Provisional Squad
England’s schedule against New Zealand comprises four T20 matches, scheduled to kick off on August 30. Subsequently, a four-game ODI series is set to take place from September 8 to 15. Importantly, England’s journey includes a crucial encounter against New Zealand in their World Cup opener, slated for October 5 in Ahmedabad, India.
England’s provisional squad for the World Cup: Jos Buttler (captain), 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.
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