Former England captains divided over Ben Stokes’ unavailability for T20 World Cup

Former England captains Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain are divided over Ben Stokes' decision to skip the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1. While Atherton said he saw this decision coming, Hussain feels his absence comes as a blow for the defending champions, adding the team needs big players in marquee tournaments.

On Wednesday (April 2), Stokes’ call to remain unavailable for selection for the 20-team-tournament made headlines worldwide, with him explaining that to prolong his career in the longer formats, he took this call.

Meanwhile, ex-England opener Atherton didn’t sound shocked at this decision, saying Stokes would have announced it sooner or later. Detailing more on this, Atherton said Stokes wants to get back to being best in his category in Tests mainly, considering the home series against India and away Ashes next year; on those grounds, this decision makes sense.

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Following the 2023 World Cup in India, Stokes underwent knee surgery and got fit in time for the away India Tests, which England lost 1-4.

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“I don't think it's a massive surprise given that had already delayed his operation and recovery from his knee injury for the 50-over World Cup,” Atherton said on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast.

“He would've certainly been picked. He wants to get back to being an all-rounder in the Test team, but England also have a very important 2025 when they take on India at home and then Australia in the Ashes,” Atherton added.

He added that England might bring in young talent for this year’s T20 World Cup.

“Of all the three formats, the T20 format, because it's the shortest format of the game and is the one where players have a limited chance to stamp their mark, is the one he is the least valuable for England. I feel like England will start to inject some new blood into their T20 and 50-over side,” Atherton said.

Stokes' absence could hurt England – Hussain

Nasser Hussain feels Stokes’ absence will be felt at the T20 World Cup, arguing the team must have big match players for such tournaments.

"It's not a surprise, but it is a bit of a blow. You want your big-game players," said Nasser Hussain. "England had a very poor 50-over World Cup, and you feel that Rob Key and the selectors are going to change a little bit."

Although Naseer admitted he would’ve loved to have Stokes on that flight to the Caribbean, he understands his decision.

“In a big game or during a semi-final, you'd want to have someone like Stokes around, but I think he's made the right decision.

“He said it wasn't just for Test match cricket, he wants to get his body right and wants to be an all-rounder in all formats of the game,” Hussain concluded.