Home Cricket Ben Stokes: England all-rounder set for Cricket World Cup after ending ODI retirement

Ben Stokes: England all-rounder set for Cricket World Cup after ending ODI retirement

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Cricket World Cup

Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder, is poised to participate in the Cricket World Cup after reversing his decision to retire from one-day international cricket. He has been included in the 15-member England squad for both the series against New Zealand and the upcoming World Cup. The squad does not feature batsmen Harry Brook and Ben Duckett, and pace bowler Jofra Archer will not recover in time. An uncapped Surrey fast bowler, Gus Atkinson, aged 25, has also made the cut and will be led by Jos Buttler.

England, who famously clinched the title on home soil four years ago, will defend their championship in India during October and November. The World Cup opener is against New Zealand, a repeat of the exciting 2019 final, scheduled for October 5 in Ahmedabad.

While England retains the option to make alterations to their World Cup squad until September 28, these 15 players are expected to be on the roster, barring any injuries. Notably, nine members from the squad that secured England’s maiden 50-over World Cup win are returning, including Stokes, who was named the player of the match in the final.

Stokes had retired from ODIs in July of the previous year, citing the “unsustainability” of playing across three formats. Despite this, he continued to lead the England Test side and participate in T20 internationals, showcasing a significant role in England’s victory in the T20 World Cup in November. Initially, he reiterated his retirement from ODIs even as recently as last month, planning to use a break from Test cricket to address a persistent left-knee issue.

However, his return to ODIs was prompted by discussions between captain Buttler and white-ball coach Matthew Mott, resulting in his selection for the series against New Zealand and the ensuing World Cup. National selector Luke Wright clarified that Stokes was always interested in making a return, and his inclusion was relatively straightforward once his physical condition had improved.

Given his knee concerns, Stokes’ bowling role will be restricted. England has other all-rounders like Moeen Ali, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, and Chris Woakes to provide flexibility in that aspect. Stokes’ inclusion as a batter has led to the omission of Harry Brook, who has performed well since his England debut.

Jofra Archer, known for his super over heroics in England’s 2019 World Cup final win, will not participate due to recurring elbow issues. He is expected to potentially join the squad as a reserve later in the tournament. Uncapped fast bowler Gus Atkinson, with only two List A matches under his belt, will provide pace alongside Mark Wood.

In summary, Ben Stokes’ decision to reverse his ODI retirement marks his return to the England squad for the upcoming Cricket World Cup. This move has been made after careful consideration of his physical condition and discussions with team management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cricket World Cup

Who is making a comeback to the England cricket squad for the World Cup?

Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder, is returning to the England cricket squad for the Cricket World Cup.

What prompted Ben Stokes’ return to the ODI squad?

Discussions between captain Jos Buttler and white-ball coach Matthew Mott led to Ben Stokes reconsidering his decision to retire from ODIs.

When is the Cricket World Cup taking place?

The Cricket World Cup is scheduled to be held in India during October and November.

Which players have been excluded from the England squad for the series against New Zealand and the World Cup?

Batsmen Harry Brook and Ben Duckett have been left out from the England squad.

Why won’t Jofra Archer be part of the Cricket World Cup?

Jofra Archer won’t be able to participate in the World Cup due to recurring elbow injuries.

How many players from the squad that won the previous 50-over World Cup are returning?

Nine players from the squad that won the previous 50-over World Cup, including Ben Stokes, are making a return for this edition.

Will Ben Stokes’ bowling be affected by his return?

Stokes’ bowling role might be limited due to his knee concerns, but England has other all-rounders to provide flexibility in bowling options.

Who will lead the England team in the Cricket World Cup?

Jos Buttler will lead the England team in the 50-over World Cup, taking over from the retired Eoin Morgan.

Are there any changes expected in the squad before the World Cup?

England retains the option to make changes to the squad up until September 28, barring any injuries.

What can be expected from England’s performance in the upcoming World Cup?

Despite challenges, England’s squad remains strong and competitive, aiming to defend their 50-over World Cup title in India.

More about Cricket World Cup

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2 comments

SportsGuru7 August 16, 2023 - 9:29 pm

england team shapin’ up strong w/ stokes back. but archer missin’ is a bummer, need him too!

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CricketFan23 August 16, 2023 - 9:40 pm

ben stokes returnin’ 4 world cup?! omg this is awesum! england need his allround magic 2 defend the title!

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