Ben Stokes, renowned for his all-round skills, will reverse his decision to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) and rejoin the England squad for the upcoming Cricket World Cup. This announcement is expected to be made on Wednesday.
Stokes, aged 32, will be returning to international ODI cricket to participate in a four-match series against New Zealand scheduled for September. The majority of players selected for this series are likely to be part of the squad for the World Cup set to take place in India during October and November.
In 2019, during the final match that led to England’s historic World Cup victory, Ben Stokes was awarded the player of the match title.
Although Stokes had initially retired from ODIs last summer, citing the challenge of managing his performance across three different formats, he continued to lead the England Test team and participate in T20 internationals. Notably, he played a pivotal role in England’s victory during the T20 World Cup in Australia.
As of July, Stokes had reaffirmed his retirement from the 50-over World Cup. However, reports emerged indicating that England’s white-ball coach, Matthew Mott, mentioned that captain Jos Buttler would discuss with Stokes the possibility of reversing this decision. Speculation arose that Stokes might consider this request.
The peculiar timing of England’s schedule allowed for the absence of Test matches until the tour of India, scheduled between January and March of the following year. Stokes intended to utilize this break to address a longstanding knee issue that has affected his ability to bowl effectively. Consequently, his primary role in the World Cup may involve specializing as a batter.
England is set to reveal their squad for the New Zealand ODIs, occurring from 8th to 15th September, at 10:00 BST on Wednesday. Additionally, a robust 15-member lineup will be announced for the T20 matches against New Zealand starting on 30th August.
After the New Zealand series, England will engage in a three-match ODI series against Ireland in late September. Due to the proximity of this series to the commencement of the World Cup on 5th October, key players are likely to be rested.
England’s campaign in the World Cup will commence with a match against New Zealand, mirroring the final showdown of the 2019 edition.
Matthew Mott also indicated that England might be open to taking a risk with pace bowler Jofra Archer’s fitness. Archer has faced persistent injuries since delivering the super over during the dramatic 2019 finale.
The World Cup squad is anticipated to feature several familiar faces, potentially retaining nine players from the victorious 2019 team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ODI Retirement Reversal
Who is Ben Stokes and what is his role in the England squad?
Ben Stokes is a prominent all-rounder in cricket, known for his batting and bowling skills. He has been a key player for England in various formats.
Why did Ben Stokes retire from ODIs?
Stokes retired from One Day Internationals (ODIs) last summer, stating that managing his performance across three formats was unsustainable.
Is Ben Stokes returning to the England squad for ODIs?
Yes, Ben Stokes is reversing his decision to retire from ODIs and is set to rejoin the England squad for the Cricket World Cup.
What was Ben Stokes’ performance during England’s World Cup victory in 2019?
Ben Stokes was named the player of the match during the final of the 2019 World Cup, where England secured their first-ever World Cup title.
What is the schedule for Ben Stokes’ return to international cricket?
Stokes will be named in a 15-man squad for a four-match series against New Zealand in September, and this squad will likely form the core of England’s World Cup team.
What role will Ben Stokes play in the upcoming World Cup?
Due to a persistent knee issue, Stokes’ role in the World Cup may focus more on his batting abilities rather than his bowling skills.
How will England’s squad be selected for the World Cup?
England will first announce their squad for the New Zealand ODIs and then name a 15-man party for T20 matches against New Zealand. A separate squad will be named for the ODIs against Ireland.
When does the Cricket World Cup take place?
The Cricket World Cup is scheduled to take place in India during October and November.
Will Stokes’ return affect other players’ positions in the squad?
Stokes’ return might lead to some adjustments in the squad composition, considering his significant impact as an all-rounder.
What are England’s prospects in the upcoming World Cup?
With key players like Ben Stokes rejoining the squad, England’s chances of performing well in the Cricket World Cup are expected to be strong.
More about ODI Retirement Reversal
- Ben Stokes Profile – ESPNcricinfo
- England’s Cricket World Cup Victory in 2019 – BBC Sport
- Ben Stokes’ Decision to Reverse ODI Retirement – The Guardian
- Cricket World Cup 2023 Schedule and Information – ICC
- England Cricket Team Official Website