England managing director of men's cricket Rob Key has backed Ben Stokes to succeed Jos Buttler after he resigned from white-ball captaincy last week. The decision from Buttler came after England exited the Champions Trophy 2025 at the group stage, losing all three matches including against Afghanistan. According to Key, Stokes is one of the options and rates him high for his captaincy stint in the red-ball format where England have flourished ever since he took over in June 2022. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Key backs Stokes for captaincy role<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Ben Stokes is one of the best captains I've ever seen, so it'd be stupid not to look at him. It's just the knock-on effect of what that means. I believe that Test cricket and 50-over cricket are probably closer now, with T20 the outlier," said Key, as quoted by Sky Sports.<o:p></o:p>
"I think nothing's off the table," Key said of the 33-year-old. "You look at every single option and you think, 'What is the best thing to do?'&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
On Friday (Feb 28), Buttler decided to step down from his role as white-ball captain of England, which has led to host of names linked with the vacant position. Harry Brook is the front-runner to take the captaincy role having been recently announced as the vice-captain when England toured India before the Champions Trophy.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/indias-best-batter-virat-kohli-is-englands-third-highest-odi-run-scorer-heres-how-8827734" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India&rsquo;s best batter Virat Kohli is third-highest ODI run scorer for 'England'. Know how</a> 
However, Stokes remains one of the best options having proven his worth in the Test format. Interestingly, he had announced his retirement from the ODI format in 2022, but retracted to be in the squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. <o:p></o:p>
England have achieved major success under Stokes in Test format having won series against New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa while also performing on multiple fronts to win matches for the side. Ben Duckett and Phil Salt are part of the conversation to England in white-ball cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket, Sports: England managing director of men's cricket Rob Key has backed Ben Stokes to succeed Jos Buttler after he resigned from white-ball captaincy last week.

England managing director of men's cricket Rob Key has backed Ben Stokes to succeed Jos Buttler after he resigned from white-ball captaincy last week. The decision from Buttler came after England exited the Champions Trophy 2025 at the group stage, losing all three matches including against Afghanistan. According to Key, Stokes is one of the options and rates him high for his captaincy stint in the red-ball format where England have flourished ever since he took over in June 2022. Key backs Stokes for captaincy role "Ben Stokes is one of the best captains I've ever seen, so it'd be stupid not to look at him. It's just the knock-on effect of what that means. I believe that Test cricket and 50-over cricket are probably closer now, with T20 the outlier," said Key, as quoted by Sky Sports. "I think nothing's off the table," Key said of the 33-year-old. "You look at every single option and you think, 'What is the best thing to do?'” On Friday (Feb 28), Buttler decided to step down from his role as white-ball captain of England, which has led to host of names linked with the vacant position. Harry Brook is the front-runner to take the captaincy role having been recently announced as the vice-captain when England toured India before the Champions Trophy. ALSO READ | India’s best batter Virat Kohli is third-highest ODI run scorer for 'England'. Know how However, Stokes remains one of the best options having proven his worth in the Test format. Interestingly, he had announced his retirement from the ODI format in 2022, but retracted to be in the squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. England have achieved major success under Stokes in Test format having won series against New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa while also performing on multiple fronts to win matches for the side. Ben Duckett and Phil Salt are part of the conversation to England in white-ball cricket.

Ben Stokes to lead England in ODIs? Rob Key backs all-rounder to succeed Jos Buttler in key role

England's campaign in the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> got off to a disappointing start with a five-wicket loss to Australia, and former England captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nasser-hussain">Nasser Hussain</a> believes the absence of all-rounder Ben Stokes is significantly impacting the team&rsquo;s balance.
Despite posting a formidable 351 runs, England couldn't defend their total as Alex Carey&rsquo;s resilience, along with explosive knocks from Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell, guided Australia to victory in Lahore on Saturday.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-kohli-goes-past-azharuddins-record-for-most-catches-by-an-indian-fielder-in-odis-8749637">Champions Trophy 2025: Kohli goes past Azharuddin&rsquo;s record for most catches by an Indian fielder in ODIs</a>
Speaking to Sky Sports, as quoted by Wisden, Hussain pointed out that Australia entered the game with low expectations due to the absence of key players like Pat Cummins, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc">Mitchell Starc</a>, Josh Hazlewood, and the recently retired Marcus Stoinis. Additionally, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was sidelined with an injury.
"When <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-duckett">Ben Duckett</a> was smashing it and got 165, and England were heading towards 350-plus, you thought maybe they had found a formula. Maybe these conditions would suit England," Hussain said.
<h2>'England lack a proper all-rounder'</h2>
However, he highlighted that England&rsquo;s lack of a proper all-rounder left them struggling to find the right team balance. To strengthen their batting, they relied on part-time options, with Liam Livingstone and Joe Root combining for 1/73 in 11 overs.
"They cannot decide whether to play an extra batter, which they did today, leaving their bowling short, or include a bowling all-rounder like Gus Atkinson or Jamie Overton at the cost of batting depth," Hussain explained.
He emphasised how Stokes&rsquo; presence could have provided much-needed stability. "Ben Stokes makes the balance between batting and bowling much more comfortable, and his absence is a big loss," he added.
Stokes has not played any List-A cricket or ODIs since the 2023 World Cup, where he made a temporary return from retirement. In 2024, his only white-ball appearances came in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers. He has also been absent from England&rsquo;s T20I squad since his match-winning 50 in the T20 World Cup 2022 final.

Cricket, Sports: Despite posting 351, England couldn't defend their total as Alex Carey’s resilience, along with knocks from Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell, helped Australia win

England's campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy got off to a disappointing start with a five-wicket loss to Australia, and former England captain Nasser Hussain believes the absence of all-rounder Ben Stokes is significantly impacting the team’s balance. Despite posting a formidable 351 runs, England couldn't defend their total as Alex Carey’s resilience, along with explosive knocks from Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell, guided Australia to victory in Lahore on Saturday. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Kohli goes past Azharuddin’s record for most catches by an Indian fielder in ODIs Speaking to Sky Sports, as quoted by Wisden, Hussain pointed out that Australia entered the game with low expectations due to the absence of key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and the recently retired Marcus Stoinis. Additionally, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was sidelined with an injury. "When Ben Duckett was smashing it and got 165, and England were heading towards 350-plus, you thought maybe they had found a formula. Maybe these conditions would suit England," Hussain said. 'England lack a proper all-rounder' However, he highlighted that England’s lack of a proper all-rounder left them struggling to find the right team balance. To strengthen their batting, they relied on part-time options, with Liam Livingstone and Joe Root combining for 1/73 in 11 overs. "They cannot decide whether to play an extra batter, which they did today, leaving their bowling short, or include a bowling all-rounder like Gus Atkinson or Jamie Overton at the cost of batting depth," Hussain explained. He emphasised how Stokes’ presence could have provided much-needed stability. "Ben Stokes makes the balance between batting and bowling much more comfortable, and his absence is a big loss," he added. Stokes has not played any List-A cricket or ODIs since the 2023 World Cup, where he made a temporary return from retirement. In 2024, his only white-ball appearances came in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers. He has also been absent from England’s T20I squad since his match-winning 50 in the T20 World Cup 2022 final.

Champions Trophy 2025: Ben Stokes’ absence in ODIs ‘big loss’ for England, says former skipper

On Monday (Oct 14), England announced their playing XI for the second and penultimate Test versus Pakistan&nbsp;in Multan, with regular captain Ben Stokes making a comeback from a hamstring injury. Further, pacer Matthew Potts is also part of the XI, replacing Gus Atkinson. Thus, Stokes returns for his first Test since missing England's home series versus Sri Lanka. He got injured during The Hundred, and, as a result, missed the Lanka series before the end of the English summer. Talking about the first Test versus Pakistan, in Multan, Ollie Pope-led side thrashed the home team by an innings and 47 runs.

England squad for 2nd Test:

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (w), Matthew Potts, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-t20-world-cup-pak-vs-nz-live-streaming-when-how-to-watch-pakistan-vs-new-zealand-clash-767234">Women's T20 World Cup, Pak vs NZ Live Streaming: When &amp; how to watch Pakistan vs New Zealand clash</a>

England have removed Woakes and Atkinson from the XI. The latter bowled 39 overs in the series opener, also held in Multan, whereas Woakes bowled 38. With the same kind of surface expected for the second Test, which will favour the batters, England have decided to rest the duo, who has played all the matches in England’s home summer so far, and, thus, Potts comes in for Atkinson whereas Stokes replaces Woakes.

Meanwhile, opener Ben Duckett -- who&nbsp;dislocated his thumb while fielding in the first innings of the Multan Test, and came in later at No 4, has retained his spot at the top.&nbsp;Jamie Smith, on the other hand, is expected to&nbsp;be back at&nbsp;No. 7 to accommodate Stokes in his preferred No. 6 position.

The first Test saw Shan Masood-led Pakistan lose by an innings despite posting 556 after opting to bat first. In response, England smashed 823/7 -- the fourth-highest score in Test cricket -- and dismissed the hosts for 220 to earn a stunning win. Harry Brook (317) and Joe Root (262) were the standout performers for England.&nbsp;Batters will once again be expected to shine bright at the same venue in the second Test.

On Monday (Oct 14), England announced their playing XI for the second and penultimate Test versus Pakistan in Multan, with regular captain Ben Stokes making a comeback from a hamstring injury.

On Monday (Oct 14), England announced their playing XI for the second and penultimate Test versus Pakistan in Multan, with regular captain Ben Stokes making a comeback from a hamstring injury. Further, pacer Matthew Potts is also part of the XI, replacing Gus Atkinson. Thus, Stokes returns for his first Test since missing England's home series versus Sri Lanka. He got injured during The Hundred, and, as a result, missed the Lanka series before the end of the English summer. Talking about the first Test versus Pakistan, in Multan, Ollie Pope-led side thrashed the home team by an innings and 47 runs. England squad for 2nd Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (w), Matthew Potts, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir Also read: Women's T20 World Cup, Pak vs NZ Live Streaming: When & how to watch Pakistan vs New Zealand clash England have removed Woakes and Atkinson from the XI. The latter bowled 39 overs in the series opener, also held in Multan, whereas Woakes bowled 38. With the same kind of surface expected for the second Test, which will favour the batters, England have decided to rest the duo, who has played all the matches in England’s home summer so far, and, thus, Potts comes in for Atkinson whereas Stokes replaces Woakes. Meanwhile, opener Ben Duckett -- who dislocated his thumb while fielding in the first innings of the Multan Test, and came in later at No 4, has retained his spot at the top. Jamie Smith, on the other hand, is expected to be back at No. 7 to accommodate Stokes in his preferred No. 6 position. The first Test saw Shan Masood-led Pakistan lose by an innings despite posting 556 after opting to bat first. In response, England smashed 823/7 -- the fourth-highest score in Test cricket -- and dismissed the hosts for 220 to earn a stunning win. Harry Brook (317) and Joe Root (262) were the standout performers for England. Batters will once again be expected to shine bright at the same venue in the second Test.

Pak vs Eng, 2nd Test: Ben Stokes returns from injury as England announce playing XI vs underfire hosts

England star all-rounder Sam Curran expressed his disappointment after not being considered as regular captain Ben Stokes' replacement for the Pakistan Test series, which commenced on Monday (Oct 7) in Multan. Ahead of the three-match series, it was revealed that Stokes would opt out of the series opener as he continues to recover from his hamstring injury, which saw him miss the home Tests in the English summer. Curran felt Stokes' absence for the Multan Test could have been a perfect occasion for his Test comeback, having last played in whites in 2021, but he wasn't considered.

Curran told talkSPORT, "I'll be totally honest, when Stokesy got injured, I did probably think that was my way back into the Test team. A couple of weeks back, I had a meeting with Keysy [Rob Key, director of cricket] just to get a bit of understanding of where the group is, and how I see myself getting back into the Test side."

"Being a young player who experienced Test cricket so young, I feel like I had an advantage to know what it's about, to know what winning a Test match is, and the grind and the grit and attitude that you need so I was a little bit gutted. Selection is selection, but I thought that was my way back into the side at the minute," Curran further added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-t20-world-cup-aus-vs-nz-live-streaming-when-how-to-watch-australia-vs-new-zealand-clash-765501">Women's T20 World Cup, Aus vs NZ Live Streaming: When &amp; how to watch Australia vs New Zealand clash</a>

With no Stokes, OIlie Pope continues to lead the Test side. Pope-led England have struggled against Shan Masood's Pakistan as the home side have crossed the 400-run mark and are eyeing over 500 with four more wickets left (at the time of publishing the report).

For Curran, he will shift his focus to the white-ball formats with him expected to play a key role in Jos Buttler-led side's upcoming tour of West Indies, featuring three ODIs and five T20Is.&nbsp;

England star all-rounder Sam Curran expressed his disappointment after not being considered as regular captain Ben Stokes' replacement for the Pakistan Test series, which commenced on Monday (Oct 7) in Multan.

England star all-rounder Sam Curran expressed his disappointment after not being considered as regular captain Ben Stokes' replacement for the Pakistan Test series, which commenced on Monday (Oct 7) in Multan. Ahead of the three-match series, it was revealed that Stokes would opt out of the series opener as he continues to recover from his hamstring injury, which saw him miss the home Tests in the English summer. Curran felt Stokes' absence for the Multan Test could have been a perfect occasion for his Test comeback, having last played in whites in 2021, but he wasn't considered. Curran told talkSPORT, "I'll be totally honest, when Stokesy got injured, I did probably think that was my way back into the Test team. A couple of weeks back, I had a meeting with Keysy [Rob Key, director of cricket] just to get a bit of understanding of where the group is, and how I see myself getting back into the Test side." "Being a young player who experienced Test cricket so young, I feel like I had an advantage to know what it's about, to know what winning a Test match is, and the grind and the grit and attitude that you need so I was a little bit gutted. Selection is selection, but I thought that was my way back into the side at the minute," Curran further added. Also read: Women's T20 World Cup, Aus vs NZ Live Streaming: When & how to watch Australia vs New Zealand clash With no Stokes, OIlie Pope continues to lead the Test side. Pope-led England have struggled against Shan Masood's Pakistan as the home side have crossed the 400-run mark and are eyeing over 500 with four more wickets left (at the time of publishing the report). For Curran, he will shift his focus to the white-ball formats with him expected to play a key role in Jos Buttler-led side's upcoming tour of West Indies, featuring three ODIs and five T20Is.

England star 'gutted' after being overlooked as replacement for Ben Stokes for Pakistan Test series

Ahead of the third and final Test between England and West Indies, hosts' vice-captain Ollie Pope feels Ben Stokes &amp; Co. can touch the 600-run mark in a single day. Pope backed England's 'ruthless' batting approach and&nbsp;feels they can create history sooner than later in the purest format of the game. Notably, England have the highest Test run-rate (4.58) since early 2022, when Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum took over the red-ball team. Since then, England's aggressive style of play has become a huge talking point and has been&nbsp;termed as 'Bazball' by the media.

Prior to the final Test versus the Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies, which starts on July 26 in Birmingham, Pope told ICC, "There’s a real hunger - there always is a hunger - but now there's an extra bit in that batting line-up. We want to be as ruthless as we can as a batting unit, but still play the way we do because that's our natural game. Obviously being ruthless is being part of Test cricket as well."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/if-you-give-gambhir-a-choice-ex-india-pacer-on-whether-kohli-and-rohit-can-play-until-2027-odi-wc-743702">'If you give Gambhir a choice...': Ex-India pacer on whether Kohli and Rohit can play until 2027 ODI WC</a>

<h2>'Sometimes we might score 280-300 in a day,&nbsp;sometimes we might get 500 to 600'</h2>

Pope, who was Player-of-the-Match with a fine 121 and 51 in the second and penultimate&nbsp; Test versus West Indies, added, "I got asked on day one 'do you get told to play like that?'. No, we don't. It's just our natural game&nbsp;and the way we go about it. Sometimes we might score 280-300 in a day but that's OK and probably because we're reading situations. There might also be a day where we go and get 500 to 600 at some point in the future as well. And that's a cool thing to have."

Stokes-led England&nbsp;already hold&nbsp;the record of scoring most runs&nbsp;on Day 1 of a Test match, when they ended with 506/4&nbsp;versus Pakistan in Rawalpindi in December 2022.&nbsp;

Talking about the England-WI Tests, the home side have an unassailable 2-0 lead following a massive 241-run win in the second Test in Nottingham. The series opener was also won by the hosts by an innings and 114 runs at Lord's.

Ahead of the third and final Test between England and West Indies, hosts' vice-captain Ollie Pope feels Ben Stokes & Co. can touch the 600-run mark in a single day.

Ahead of the third and final Test between England and West Indies, hosts' vice-captain Ollie Pope feels Ben Stokes & Co. can touch the 600-run mark in a single day. Pope backed England's 'ruthless' batting approach and feels they can create history sooner than later in the purest format of the game. Notably, England have the highest Test run-rate (4.58) since early 2022, when Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum took over the red-ball team. Since then, England's aggressive style of play has become a huge talking point and has been termed as 'Bazball' by the media. Prior to the final Test versus the Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies, which starts on July 26 in Birmingham, Pope told ICC, "There’s a real hunger - there always is a hunger - but now there's an extra bit in that batting line-up. We want to be as ruthless as we can as a batting unit, but still play the way we do because that's our natural game. Obviously being ruthless is being part of Test cricket as well." Also read: 'If you give Gambhir a choice...': Ex-India pacer on whether Kohli and Rohit can play until 2027 ODI WC 'Sometimes we might score 280-300 in a day, sometimes we might get 500 to 600' Pope, who was Player-of-the-Match with a fine 121 and 51 in the second and penultimate Test versus West Indies, added, "I got asked on day one 'do you get told to play like that?'. No, we don't. It's just our natural game and the way we go about it. Sometimes we might score 280-300 in a day but that's OK and probably because we're reading situations. There might also be a day where we go and get 500 to 600 at some point in the future as well. And that's a cool thing to have." Stokes-led England already hold the record of scoring most runs on Day 1 of a Test match, when they ended with 506/4 versus Pakistan in Rawalpindi in December 2022. Talking about the England-WI Tests, the home side have an unassailable 2-0 lead following a massive 241-run win in the second Test in Nottingham. The series opener was also won by the hosts by an innings and 114 runs at Lord's.

Eng vs WI, 3rd Test: Ollie Pope backs ‘ruthless’ Ben Stokes-led England to score 600 runs in a day

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Stokes was part of the Jos Buttler-led England squad that won the last edition, held in Australia, in 2022. In the final, against Pakistan, Stokes stood tall in a 138-run chase with an unbeaten 49-ball 52 as England won by five wickets at the MCG, Melbourne.

The England Test captain, who was last seen in action during the Three Lions' five-match Test series versus hosts India in January-March, has taken the tough call in order to regain full fitness since his knee surgery in November 2023.

<h2>'Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice'</h2>

In a statement shared by the England Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes said, "I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shaheen-afridi-to-hold-talks-with-pcb-chairman-over-fake-quotes-on-babars-return-as-white-ball-captain-706541">Shaheen Afridi to hold talks with PCB chairman over ‘fake quotes on Babar’s return’ as white-ball captain</a>

The statement further added, "The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer. I wish Jos, Motty and all the team the best of luck in defending our title."

Stokes has not been fully fit in recent times. In Ashes 2023, at home, the England captain played a limited role with the ball, bowling 29 overs in four innings from five Tests. He didn't bowl a single over in the ODI World Cup, where he returned to the format after coming out of retirement, and played the five Tests against India by bowling only five overs in the final Test in Dharamsala. He has played mostly as a batter due to his knee issues, to manage&nbsp;his workload.

Thus, Stokes also opted out of IPL 2024 -- after playing only a few games for MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023 -- and wants to return after regaining full fitness to prolong his career.

Notably, Jos Buttler-led England are placed in Group B in the upcoming T20 WC, alongside arch-rivals Australia,&nbsp;Namibia, Scotland and Oman.

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Stokes was part of the Jos Buttler-led England squad that won the last edition, held in Australia, in 2022. In the final, against Pakistan, Stokes stood tall in a 138-run chase with an unbeaten 49-ball 52 as England won by five wickets at the MCG, Melbourne. The England Test captain, who was last seen in action during the Three Lions' five-match Test series versus hosts India in January-March, has taken the tough call in order to regain full fitness since his knee surgery in November 2023. 'Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice' In a statement shared by the England Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes said, "I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future." Also read: Shaheen Afridi to hold talks with PCB chairman over ‘fake quotes on Babar’s return’ as white-ball captain The statement further added, "The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer. I wish Jos, Motty and all the team the best of luck in defending our title." Stokes has not been fully fit in recent times. In Ashes 2023, at home, the England captain played a limited role with the ball, bowling 29 overs in four innings from five Tests. He didn't bowl a single over in the ODI World Cup, where he returned to the format after coming out of retirement, and played the five Tests against India by bowling only five overs in the final Test in Dharamsala. He has played mostly as a batter due to his knee issues, to manage his workload. Thus, Stokes also opted out of IPL 2024 -- after playing only a few games for MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023 -- and wants to return after regaining full fitness to prolong his career. Notably, Jos Buttler-led England are placed in Group B in the upcoming T20 WC, alongside arch-rivals Australia, Namibia, Scotland and Oman.

England’s Ben Stokes withdraws from 2024 T20 World Cup, to work on regaining full fitness

England's Ben Stokes is set to undergo&nbsp;a surgery on his troublesome knee after the ODI World Cup, the all-rounder and Test captain said on Friday (Nov 3). The 32-year-old has not been bowling regularly due to his knee issues, which also hampered his run at the IPL 2023. He, however, expects to return in time to lead England in the five-match Test series versus hosts India early next year.

Ahead of Jos Buttler-led England's World Cup clash versus Australia in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Nov 4), Stokes told reporters, "I’ll be fine for the Test series in India. But yes, I am having surgery after the World Cup."

He added, "Not bowling makes it seem a lot longer than what it normally is. But over the last 18 months, it’s been ‘will I, won’t I? It’s probably the first time since I’ve had this knee issue where it’s been quite clear that I’m not going to be bowling."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-nz-henry-ruled-out-as-jamieson-named-replacement-ahead-of-crucial-odi-wc-tie-vs-pakistan-654612">Big blow to NZ! Henry ruled out as Jamieson named replacement ahead of crucial ODI WC tie vs Pakistan</a>

Stokes has had injury issues since the start of the year. He was out of the second half of IPL 2023, where he represented MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), after playing just two games and didn't bowl.

He somehow managed past the entire home Ashes series, but bowled just 29 overs in five games (taking three scalps).

With the bat, he was at his best, scoring 405 runs including a century and&nbsp;two fifties.

Stokes returned to ODIs, after a shock retirement last year, for the World Cup in India but has not managed to inspire the defending champions as Buttler &amp; Co are reeling at the bottom with only one win from six games.

He has not got big runs playing just as a batter in the mega event.

England's Ben Stokes is set to undergo a surgery on his troublesome knee after the ODI World Cup, the all-rounder and Test captain said on Friday (Nov 3). The 32-year-old has not been bowling regularly due to his knee issues, which also hampered his run at the IPL 2023.

England's Ben Stokes is set to undergo a surgery on his troublesome knee after the ODI World Cup, the all-rounder and Test captain said on Friday (Nov 3). The 32-year-old has not been bowling regularly due to his knee issues, which also hampered his run at the IPL 2023. He, however, expects to return in time to lead England in the five-match Test series versus hosts India early next year. Ahead of Jos Buttler-led England's World Cup clash versus Australia in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Nov 4), Stokes told reporters, "I’ll be fine for the Test series in India. But yes, I am having surgery after the World Cup." He added, "Not bowling makes it seem a lot longer than what it normally is. But over the last 18 months, it’s been ‘will I, won’t I? It’s probably the first time since I’ve had this knee issue where it’s been quite clear that I’m not going to be bowling." Also read: Big blow to NZ! Henry ruled out as Jamieson named replacement ahead of crucial ODI WC tie vs Pakistan Stokes has had injury issues since the start of the year. He was out of the second half of IPL 2023, where he represented MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), after playing just two games and didn't bowl. He somehow managed past the entire home Ashes series, but bowled just 29 overs in five games (taking three scalps). With the bat, he was at his best, scoring 405 runs including a century and two fifties. Stokes returned to ODIs, after a shock retirement last year, for the World Cup in India but has not managed to inspire the defending champions as Buttler & Co are reeling at the bottom with only one win from six games. He has not got big runs playing just as a batter in the mega event.

After ODI World Cup, England Test skipper Ben Stokes to undergo knee surgery

England Test captain Ben Stokes was left fuming after the star all-rounder's bag got stolen at the King’s Cross train station in London. The 31-year-old Stokes vented out his frustration via a tweet on the social media platform. As per the English cricketer, the bag contained some of his personal belongings and, thus, he lost his cool on the unknown culprit.

Stokes took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "To whoever stole my bag at King’s Cross train station. I hope my clothes are too big for you."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
To who ever stole my bag at King’s Cross train station. 
I hope my clothes are to big for you ya absolute ****** 😡
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1634913527579246592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-endearing-gestures-for-alex-carey-usman-khawja-after-ahmedabad-test-wins-hearts-571760">WATCH: Virat Kohli's ENDEARING gesture for Alex Carey, Usman Khawaja after Ahmedabad Test wins hearts</a>

Stokes'&nbsp;tweet went viral in no time as many users reacted to the unfortunate incident. Among many, a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fan also came up with a message for the England all-rounder. He wrote, "Ben, Leave that:-) Yellow jersey is waiting for you! Really cool outfits.. Concerning that A FanBase Has expanded its roots in England also!"

Here's his tweet:

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Ben, Leave that:-) 
Yellow jersey is waiting for you! 
Really cool outfits.. 
 
Concerning that A FanBase Has expanded its roots in England also!
— Hustler (@KrAk0451) <a href="https://twitter.com/KrAk0451/status/1634927350797471744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Stokes was recently seen leading England in a two-match Test series versus hosts New Zealand. While England convincingly defeated New Zealand in the series opener, Tim Southee &amp; Co. bounced back in style to level the series with a one-run win in the decider. The star cricketer is now gearing up to represent the MS Dhoni-led CSK franchise in IPL 2023.

The upcoming IPL season kicks off on March 31 with CSK taking on defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home ground in Ahmedabad.

England Test captain Ben Stokes was left fuming after the star all-rounder's bag got stolen at the King’s Cross train station in London. The 31-year-old Stokes vented out his frustration via a tweet on the social media platform.

England Test captain Ben Stokes was left fuming after the star all-rounder's bag got stolen at the King’s Cross train station in London. The 31-year-old Stokes vented out his frustration via a tweet on the social media platform. As per the English cricketer, the bag contained some of his personal belongings and, thus, he lost his cool on the unknown culprit. Stokes took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "To whoever stole my bag at King’s Cross train station. I hope my clothes are too big for you." To who ever stole my bag at King’s Cross train station. I hope my clothes are to big for you ya absolute ****** 😡 — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) March 12, 2023 × Also read: WATCH: Virat Kohli's ENDEARING gesture for Alex Carey, Usman Khawaja after Ahmedabad Test wins hearts Stokes' tweet went viral in no time as many users reacted to the unfortunate incident. Among many, a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fan also came up with a message for the England all-rounder. He wrote, "Ben, Leave that:-) Yellow jersey is waiting for you! Really cool outfits.. Concerning that A FanBase Has expanded its roots in England also!" Here's his tweet: Ben, Leave that:-) Yellow jersey is waiting for you! Really cool outfits.. Concerning that A FanBase Has expanded its roots in England also! — Hustler (@KrAk0451) March 12, 2023 × Stokes was recently seen leading England in a two-match Test series versus hosts New Zealand. While England convincingly defeated New Zealand in the series opener, Tim Southee & Co. bounced back in style to level the series with a one-run win in the decider. The star cricketer is now gearing up to represent the MS Dhoni-led CSK franchise in IPL 2023. The upcoming IPL season kicks off on March 31 with CSK taking on defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home ground in Ahmedabad.

'To whoever stole...': England Test captain Ben Stokes loses cool after an unfortunate incident - see post

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will kick off on March 31 with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home ground, in Ahmedabad. The Yellow Army will be eager to start off on a winning note after their disastrous run in the IPL 2022 season, where they finished in the ninth spot. It is likely that the upcoming season will be Dhoni's last and, hence, the four-time winners will be desperate to give him a fitting farewell with another title win.

In IPL 2020, CSK failed to enter the playoffs for the first time ever in their rich history. In the next season, they bounced back in style and won the trophy. In IPL 2022, they once again fell flat and, hence, many hope for them to make a strong statement in this year's edition. They have already included England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes in their setup&nbsp;who will definitely provide more depth and balance to the side.

Ahead of IPL 2023, former Indian and CSK off-spinner Harbhajan Singh mentioned the player who can be Chennai's X-factor. Bhajji feels Ravindra Jadeja will be their trump card in the forthcoming season.

"The one person who everyone should keep an eye on is Ravindra Jadeja, especially how he bats for CSK. He may be promoted up the order plus he has his four overs," Harbhajan said on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-who-ever-stole-england-test-captain-ben-stokes-loses-his-cool-after-unfortunate-incident-see-post-571793">'To who ever stole...': England Test captain Ben Stokes loses cool after an unfortunate incident - see post</a>

"If you look at it from a world cricket perspective, I don't think there's a better all-rounder than him. So I’m looking forward to seeing Ravindra Jadeja in the IPL. The X factor for me will be Ravindra Jadeja because he has been very successful in these conditions as a bowler and a batsman, he’s been playing there for so many years. So for me, he is definitely going to be the X factor for the side," the veteran off-spinner further added.

Jadeja had a poor run in IPL 2022, where he led in the first eight games after being appointed the new captain ahead of the season. Under him, CSK only managed two wins whereas his own form remained a cause of concern. He ended with 116 runs at a strike rate of 118.37 and only claimed five wickets before a rib injury ruled him out after ten games.

CSK squad for IPL 2023

MS Dhoni (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ambati Rayudu, Subhranshu Senapati, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Shaik Rasheed, Nishant Sindhu, Kyle Jamieson, Ajay Mandal, Bhagath Varma

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will kick off on March 31 with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home ground, in Ahmedabad.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will kick off on March 31 with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home ground, in Ahmedabad. The Yellow Army will be eager to start off on a winning note after their disastrous run in the IPL 2022 season, where they finished in the ninth spot. It is likely that the upcoming season will be Dhoni's last and, hence, the four-time winners will be desperate to give him a fitting farewell with another title win. In IPL 2020, CSK failed to enter the playoffs for the first time ever in their rich history. In the next season, they bounced back in style and won the trophy. In IPL 2022, they once again fell flat and, hence, many hope for them to make a strong statement in this year's edition. They have already included England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes in their setup who will definitely provide more depth and balance to the side. Ahead of IPL 2023, former Indian and CSK off-spinner Harbhajan Singh mentioned the player who can be Chennai's X-factor. Bhajji feels Ravindra Jadeja will be their trump card in the forthcoming season. "The one person who everyone should keep an eye on is Ravindra Jadeja, especially how he bats for CSK. He may be promoted up the order plus he has his four overs," Harbhajan said on Star Sports. Also Read: 'To who ever stole...': England Test captain Ben Stokes loses cool after an unfortunate incident - see post "If you look at it from a world cricket perspective, I don't think there's a better all-rounder than him. So I’m looking forward to seeing Ravindra Jadeja in the IPL. The X factor for me will be Ravindra Jadeja because he has been very successful in these conditions as a bowler and a batsman, he’s been playing there for so many years. So for me, he is definitely going to be the X factor for the side," the veteran off-spinner further added. Jadeja had a poor run in IPL 2022, where he led in the first eight games after being appointed the new captain ahead of the season. Under him, CSK only managed two wins whereas his own form remained a cause of concern. He ended with 116 runs at a strike rate of 118.37 and only claimed five wickets before a rib injury ruled him out after ten games. CSK squad for IPL 2023 MS Dhoni (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ambati Rayudu, Subhranshu Senapati, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Shaik Rasheed, Nishant Sindhu, Kyle Jamieson, Ajay Mandal, Bhagath Varma

IPL 2023: Not MS Dhoni or Ben Stokes! 'He will be...' - Harbhajan Singh names CSK's X-factor

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp. ECB's new managing director Rob Key and Kirsten's talk have reached the advanced stage and an announcement is likely to follow suit in the next couple of weeks as the interview rounds for red-ball and white-ball coaching roles&nbsp;will kick off on May 9.

According to the Daily Mail, Kirsten is willing to part ways with the GT franchise post the ongoing IPL season in India. However, with England set to host New Zealand in a Test series --&nbsp;starting from June 02 -- and Gujarat being a strong contender to enter the IPL playoffs, the former South African opener won't get much time for a smooth transition into his new role. If Gujarat reach the final, to be held on May 29, it will give very less time for Kirsten to interact with the England Test squad.

While Kirsten looks set to take over as England's red-ball coach, Simon Katich, and Ottis Gibson are also two known names who are in contention for either red or white-ball coaching roles. Thus, nothing is absolutely final as yet. Talking about Kirsten, he certainly has an edge as he has led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title as their head coach and also guided South Africa to the No. 1 Test rankings in his coaching career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gt-vs-srh-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-gujarat-titans-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-474275">GT vs SRH, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?</a>

On the other hand, ECB is set to appoint all-rounder Ben Stokes as the next England Test captain. Stokes has served as former captain Joe Root's deputy for long. His record in whites is also phenomenal, with 5,061 runs and 174 scalps in the purest format. Thus, he is a strong contender to succeed Root, who resigned as the Test captain recently after England's disastrous run in Ashes 2021/22 and the West Indies tour early this year.&nbsp;

Root ended his Test captaincy tenure with most wins (27) and most losses (26) as an England captain.

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp.

Gary Kirsten is currently serving as the batting coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. However, he is set to take over as England's Test team's coach as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking for a total revamp. ECB's new managing director Rob Key and Kirsten's talk have reached the advanced stage and an announcement is likely to follow suit in the next couple of weeks as the interview rounds for red-ball and white-ball coaching roles will kick off on May 9. According to the Daily Mail, Kirsten is willing to part ways with the GT franchise post the ongoing IPL season in India. However, with England set to host New Zealand in a Test series -- starting from June 02 -- and Gujarat being a strong contender to enter the IPL playoffs, the former South African opener won't get much time for a smooth transition into his new role. If Gujarat reach the final, to be held on May 29, it will give very less time for Kirsten to interact with the England Test squad. While Kirsten looks set to take over as England's red-ball coach, Simon Katich, and Ottis Gibson are also two known names who are in contention for either red or white-ball coaching roles. Thus, nothing is absolutely final as yet. Talking about Kirsten, he certainly has an edge as he has led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title as their head coach and also guided South Africa to the No. 1 Test rankings in his coaching career. ALSO READ | GT vs SRH, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match? On the other hand, ECB is set to appoint all-rounder Ben Stokes as the next England Test captain. Stokes has served as former captain Joe Root's deputy for long. His record in whites is also phenomenal, with 5,061 runs and 174 scalps in the purest format. Thus, he is a strong contender to succeed Root, who resigned as the Test captain recently after England's disastrous run in Ashes 2021/22 and the West Indies tour early this year. Root ended his Test captaincy tenure with most wins (27) and most losses (26) as an England captain.

Gary Kirsten set to be England's Test coach, Ben Stokes to succeed Joe Root: Report

Kraigg Brathwaite-led West Indies will lock horns with Joe Root's England cricket team in the opening Test of the three-match series in the Caribbean island on Tuesday evening (March 08). Both sides are coming to the series on the back of some poor performances in the recent past.

For the home side, they have won only a solitary Test in the ongoing second edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). On the other hand, England is occupying the bottom-most position in the WTC points table following a horror Ashes 2021/22 edition, held Down Under recently.

So far, both sides have met in 160 Test matches, with the Windies winning 58 and losing 51. At home, the Brathwaite-led side have hosted 71 Tests, winning 27 and losing 15 (with&nbsp;29 draws).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-want-your-71st-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-wins-hearts-460036">We want your 71st century in Pakistan: Fan's message for Virat Kohli wins hearts</a>

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<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">England: Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Joe Root(c), Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes(w), Chris Woakes, Craig Overton, Mark Wood, Jack Leach, Saqib Mahmood

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite(c), John Campbell, Nkrumah Bonner, Jermaine Blackwood, Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva(w), Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, Veerasammy Permaul, Shamarh Brooks, Anderson Phillip

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match taking place?

The West Indies vs England&nbsp;1st Test match is scheduled to commence on March 08, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match taking place?

West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match will be&nbsp;held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua.

At what time West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match taking place?

West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match will start&nbsp;at 7:30 PM&nbsp;IST (2:00 PM GMT, 10 AM Local).

How to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match live on TV?

Much to the dismay of the&nbsp;cricket fans in India, the West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match&nbsp;will not be telecasted&nbsp;live on TV in the country.

How to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match live streaming?

West Indies vs England 1st Test&nbsp;match&nbsp;will be streamed live on the Fancode app and website.

Kraigg Brathwaite-led West Indies will lock horns with Joe Root's England cricket team in the opening Test of the three-match series in the Caribbean island on Tuesday evening (March 08).

Kraigg Brathwaite-led West Indies will lock horns with Joe Root's England cricket team in the opening Test of the three-match series in the Caribbean island on Tuesday evening (March 08). Both sides are coming to the series on the back of some poor performances in the recent past. For the home side, they have won only a solitary Test in the ongoing second edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). On the other hand, England is occupying the bottom-most position in the WTC points table following a horror Ashes 2021/22 edition, held Down Under recently. So far, both sides have met in 160 Test matches, with the Windies winning 58 and losing 51. At home, the Brathwaite-led side have hosted 71 Tests, winning 27 and losing 15 (with 29 draws). ALSO READ | We want your 71st century in Pakistan: Fan's message for Virat Kohli wins hearts Squads: England: Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Joe Root(c), Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes(w), Chris Woakes, Craig Overton, Mark Wood, Jack Leach, Saqib Mahmood West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite(c), John Campbell, Nkrumah Bonner, Jermaine Blackwood, Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva(w), Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, Veerasammy Permaul, Shamarh Brooks, Anderson Phillip Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is West Indies vs England 1st Test match taking place? The West Indies vs England 1st Test match is scheduled to commence on March 08, 2022. Where is West Indies vs England 1st Test match taking place? West Indies vs England 1st Test match will be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua. At what time West Indies vs England 1st Test match taking place? West Indies vs England 1st Test match will start at 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT, 10 AM Local). How to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test match live on TV? Much to the dismay of the cricket fans in India, the West Indies vs England 1st Test match will not be telecasted live on TV in the country. How to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test match live streaming? West Indies vs England 1st Test match will be streamed live on the Fancode app and website.

WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 1st Test match - IST time and streaming details

England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England. Ahead of the Ashes, Stokes has made some startling revelations.

The England all-rounder revealed he almost choked on a table in his hotel room and thought "it might be the end". He opened on the traumatic experience in his column for Daily Mail and revealed distressing details. Stokes said he felt as if his mouth was on fire and he was not able to breathe at all after the tablet got stuck in his windpipe.

"Until it actually came out, I thought this might be the end," Stokes wrote in his column for Daily Mail.&nbsp;

"I was on my own in my room and I couldn't breathe as it became lodged and started to dissolve. It felt like my mouth was on fire.

“Without going into too much detail I have never seen as much saliva as I did on Sunday morning, it was a genuinely frightening experience,” he explained further.

Stokes revealed he recieved another scare on the same day when he was struck on the arm by England batting coach Jonathan Trott during a practice session. The 30-year-old, who was recovering from a finger injury, felt that his arm was broken after being hit but much to his respite, the physios helped him reduce the pain.

"I couldn't lift it ... I thought it was broken," Stokes added. "Thankfully the pain and reaction settled down once I was back in the dressing room and the physios could be sure it wasn't actually a break," Stokes wrote.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-kl-rahul-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-indian-players-who-might-not-be-retained-by-their-ipl-franchises-432611">From KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 Indian players who might not be retained by their IPL franchises</a>

"It was only after I got back to my hotel room that I took stock of what a day I'd had. The adrenaline had worn off and I was exhausted. Happy that I'm here to tell the tale, but hoping that my pre-test dramas are now over," he added.

The Ashes 2021-2022 is all set to get underway from December 08 with the first Test scheduled to be staged in Brisbane. Australia had retained the Ashes in 2019 after drawing the series 2-2 in England. 
&nbsp;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England. Ahead of the Ashes, Stokes has made some startling revelations. The England all-rounder revealed he almost choked on a table in his hotel room and thought "it might be the end". He opened on the traumatic experience in his column for Daily Mail and revealed distressing details. Stokes said he felt as if his mouth was on fire and he was not able to breathe at all after the tablet got stuck in his windpipe. "Until it actually came out, I thought this might be the end," Stokes wrote in his column for Daily Mail. "I was on my own in my room and I couldn't breathe as it became lodged and started to dissolve. It felt like my mouth was on fire. “Without going into too much detail I have never seen as much saliva as I did on Sunday morning, it was a genuinely frightening experience,” he explained further. Stokes revealed he recieved another scare on the same day when he was struck on the arm by England batting coach Jonathan Trott during a practice session. The 30-year-old, who was recovering from a finger injury, felt that his arm was broken after being hit but much to his respite, the physios helped him reduce the pain. "I couldn't lift it ... I thought it was broken," Stokes added. "Thankfully the pain and reaction settled down once I was back in the dressing room and the physios could be sure it wasn't actually a break," Stokes wrote. Also Read: From KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 Indian players who might not be retained by their IPL franchises "It was only after I got back to my hotel room that I took stock of what a day I'd had. The adrenaline had worn off and I was exhausted. Happy that I'm here to tell the tale, but hoping that my pre-test dramas are now over," he added. The Ashes 2021-2022 is all set to get underway from December 08 with the first Test scheduled to be staged in Brisbane. Australia had retained the Ashes in 2019 after drawing the series 2-2 in England.

'Thought this might be the end': Ben Stokes reveals he nearly choked on tablet in his hotel room

The inaugural of the ICC World Test Championship was announced in August 2019 and will finish up in June 2021. The last match between India and New Zealand will begin on 18 June in Southampton. The WTC saw extraordinary exhibitions from numerous players.

Here is a glance at the main&nbsp;five batsmen who scored the most runs in the World Test Championship 2019-21.&nbsp;

<h2>Marnus Labuschagne&nbsp;</h2>

A leg-spinner-turned batsman and blasting onto the scene by making the number three spot in Tests. Marnus Labuschagne has shown some stupendous structure of late which has assisted him with solidifying his spot in&nbsp;the Australian Test side.&nbsp;

The hundreds that he has been for the most part enormous hundreds and that likewise goes far in showing his demeanor and readiness to not discard his wicket following a century and to bat for significant stretches.&nbsp;

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne glanced in enormous touch during the primary release of the World Test Championship. He is the leading run-scorer in the competition with 1675 runs from 23 innings at an amazing average of 72.82.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-top-5-wicket-takers-in-world-test-championship-cycle-2019-2021-390163" hreflang="en">Cricket: Top 5 wicket-takers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021</a>

<h2>Joe Root&nbsp;</h2>

English Test skipper Joe Root remains at the second spot in the count of driving run-scorers in the World Test Championship. He has scored 1660 runs at an average of 47.42 including three hundred and eight fifties. Joe Root crushed two double hundreds of years also in WTC.&nbsp;

In only three matches, two against Sri Lanka and one against India, Joe Root has scored 684 runs at an average of 114, with a noteworthy strike rate of 64.65. His exhibitions in three back-to-back England triumphs helped individuals to remember his capacity as perhaps the best player of spin.&nbsp;

Whatever Joe Root proceeds to accomplish between now and the end of his vocation, however, his place at the top table of extraordinary batsmen at present&nbsp;without question.&nbsp;

<h2>Steve Smith&nbsp;</h2>

He doesn't follow the training manual; he doesn't have a characteristic style that makes you expand at him in wonderment. However, he is ostensibly the best batsman in the longest format of the game right now.&nbsp;

One of the advanced Test batting greats, Steven Smith keeps on breaking records in the longest arrangement of the game, regardless of whether his exhibitions have dunked marginally in the new past.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-player-of-the-month-nominations-for-may-390145" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces player of the month nominations for May</a>

He is viewed as the best Test batsman right now. He won the Test cricketer of the decade award in ICC yearly honors this year. Steve Smith made his comeback following one year ban with a century against England in Ashes 2019, which was likewise the main match of WTC 2019-21. Generally speaking, he scored 1341 runs in 22 innings at an average of 63.85. He crushed four centuries and seven fifties in the period.&nbsp;

<h2>Ben Stokes&nbsp;</h2>

English All-rounder Ben Stokes had an extraordinary effect with the bat in WTC. He amassed 1334 runs in 32 innings at an average of 46. He crushed four centuries and seven fifties during the stage. This incorporates a knock for the ages of 135* played against Australia at Headingley in the Ashes 2019. It was his astounding huge hitting – eight sixes – that carried his group to the doorstep of astonishing success.&nbsp;

The picture of Ben Stokes towards the end of the match, remaining at the focal point of the ground, will go down as perhaps the most famous in English cricket history. Although, his most noteworthy score of 176 in WTC came against West Indies in 2020.&nbsp;

<h2>Ajinkya Rahane&nbsp;</h2>

Having made his Test debut in March 2013 against Australia in Delhi, Rahane has, up until now, represented India in 73 Tests, in which he has scored 4583 runs at an average of 41.28. The right-hander has enrolled 12 hundred and 23 half-hundreds of years&nbsp;

Indian vice-captain in the Test format Ajinkya Rahane is the leading run-scorer among his comrades in the WTC 2019-21. He was likewise the only Indian to cross the 1000-run obstruction in the competition. Ajinkya Rahane scored 1095 runs in 28 innings at an average of 43.80 which included three centuries and 6 fifties. He was the skipper of the Indian team in the last three matches of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21.&nbsp;

Despite the fact that he is not, at this point in the plan of things in the more limited formats for India, Ajinkya Rahane has stayed a vital component in the longest format, particularly when India has played away from home.

The inaugural of the ICC World Test Championship was announced in August 2019 and will finish up in June 2021. The last match between India and New Zealand will begin on 18 June in Southampton.

The inaugural of the ICC World Test Championship was announced in August 2019 and will finish up in June 2021. The last match between India and New Zealand will begin on 18 June in Southampton. The WTC saw extraordinary exhibitions from numerous players. Here is a glance at the main five batsmen who scored the most runs in the World Test Championship 2019-21. Marnus Labuschagne A leg-spinner-turned batsman and blasting onto the scene by making the number three spot in Tests. Marnus Labuschagne has shown some stupendous structure of late which has assisted him with solidifying his spot in the Australian Test side. The hundreds that he has been for the most part enormous hundreds and that likewise goes far in showing his demeanor and readiness to not discard his wicket following a century and to bat for significant stretches. Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne glanced in enormous touch during the primary release of the World Test Championship. He is the leading run-scorer in the competition with 1675 runs from 23 innings at an amazing average of 72.82. ALSO READ: Cricket: Top 5 wicket-takers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021 Joe Root English Test skipper Joe Root remains at the second spot in the count of driving run-scorers in the World Test Championship. He has scored 1660 runs at an average of 47.42 including three hundred and eight fifties. Joe Root crushed two double hundreds of years also in WTC. In only three matches, two against Sri Lanka and one against India, Joe Root has scored 684 runs at an average of 114, with a noteworthy strike rate of 64.65. His exhibitions in three back-to-back England triumphs helped individuals to remember his capacity as perhaps the best player of spin. Whatever Joe Root proceeds to accomplish between now and the end of his vocation, however, his place at the top table of extraordinary batsmen at present without question. Steve Smith He doesn't follow the training manual; he doesn't have a characteristic style that makes you expand at him in wonderment. However, he is ostensibly the best batsman in the longest format of the game right now. One of the advanced Test batting greats, Steven Smith keeps on breaking records in the longest arrangement of the game, regardless of whether his exhibitions have dunked marginally in the new past. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces player of the month nominations for May He is viewed as the best Test batsman right now. He won the Test cricketer of the decade award in ICC yearly honors this year. Steve Smith made his comeback following one year ban with a century against England in Ashes 2019, which was likewise the main match of WTC 2019-21. Generally speaking, he scored 1341 runs in 22 innings at an average of 63.85. He crushed four centuries and seven fifties in the period. Ben Stokes English All-rounder Ben Stokes had an extraordinary effect with the bat in WTC. He amassed 1334 runs in 32 innings at an average of 46. He crushed four centuries and seven fifties during the stage. This incorporates a knock for the ages of 135* played against Australia at Headingley in the Ashes 2019. It was his astounding huge hitting – eight sixes – that carried his group to the doorstep of astonishing success. The picture of Ben Stokes towards the end of the match, remaining at the focal point of the ground, will go down as perhaps the most famous in English cricket history. Although, his most noteworthy score of 176 in WTC came against West Indies in 2020. Ajinkya Rahane Having made his Test debut in March 2013 against Australia in Delhi, Rahane has, up until now, represented India in 73 Tests, in which he has scored 4583 runs at an average of 41.28. The right-hander has enrolled 12 hundred and 23 half-hundreds of years Indian vice-captain in the Test format Ajinkya Rahane is the leading run-scorer among his comrades in the WTC 2019-21. He was likewise the only Indian to cross the 1000-run obstruction in the competition. Ajinkya Rahane scored 1095 runs in 28 innings at an average of 43.80 which included three centuries and 6 fifties. He was the skipper of the Indian team in the last three matches of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. Despite the fact that he is not, at this point in the plan of things in the more limited formats for India, Ajinkya Rahane has stayed a vital component in the longest format, particularly when India has played away from home.

Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021

Ben Stokes is yet to recuperate from the finger injury he picked up during IPL 2021. The England all-rounder expressed that he is 'gutted' to miss the two-match Test arrangement against New Zealand, beginning tomorrow.&nbsp;

In an update, Stokes uncovered that he is at an 'exciting point of recovery&nbsp;as he has continued light preparing. In any case, there is still no fixed course of events on when he may open up for choice.

"I’m gutted to be missing the start of England’s international summer. Knowing that my finger injury is keeping me off the field is so frustrating. I’m able to bowl, I’m able to get in the gym and I’m able to hit some balls again so I’m at an exciting point of my recovery where full-on training is not that far away and then I can start thinking about playing in a match again. It is still too early to say exactly when I’ll be back for Durham, but I’ve had a good start" - he said.

Ben Stokes was most recently seen in action for England during their visit through India recently. The all-rounder, who is important for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, endured a finger injury while taking a catch in their first round of the period in April.&nbsp;

ECB will handle a much-changed side as players engaged with the now-suspended IPL 2021 have been given broadened downtime by the England and Wales Cricket Board.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-crowds-likely-at-ipl-2021-matches-in-uae-report-388581" hreflang="en">Cricket: Crowds likely at IPL 2021 matches in UAE - Report</a>

Jofra Archer is additionally absent with a physical issue, alongside Ben Stokes. Notwithstanding, the all-rounder feels England has sufficient capability to see out New Zealand while being eager to see some new English ability on show.

"I reckon we still have enough in the tank to get a result with some entertaining cricket on show. Guys like James Bracey and Ollie Robinson have fully earned their call ups.

You never totally know how it is going to go until they get out there, but it is fair to say we’re all excited to see new talent being given the opportunity to show what they can do and this is their chance to stake a claim for the long term" - he added.

Team England will trust their star all-rounder recuperates on schedule for the significant five-match Test series against India, beginning in August. English players will likewise have an eye on the forthcoming Ashes, which begins in December in Australia.

Ben Stokes is yet to recuperate from the finger injury he picked up during IPL 2021. The England all-rounder expressed that he is 'gutted' to miss the two-match Test arrangement against New Zealand, beginning tomorrow.

Ben Stokes is yet to recuperate from the finger injury he picked up during IPL 2021. The England all-rounder expressed that he is 'gutted' to miss the two-match Test arrangement against New Zealand, beginning tomorrow. In an update, Stokes uncovered that he is at an 'exciting point of recovery as he has continued light preparing. In any case, there is still no fixed course of events on when he may open up for choice. "I’m gutted to be missing the start of England’s international summer. Knowing that my finger injury is keeping me off the field is so frustrating. I’m able to bowl, I’m able to get in the gym and I’m able to hit some balls again so I’m at an exciting point of my recovery where full-on training is not that far away and then I can start thinking about playing in a match again. It is still too early to say exactly when I’ll be back for Durham, but I’ve had a good start" - he said. Ben Stokes was most recently seen in action for England during their visit through India recently. The all-rounder, who is important for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, endured a finger injury while taking a catch in their first round of the period in April. ECB will handle a much-changed side as players engaged with the now-suspended IPL 2021 have been given broadened downtime by the England and Wales Cricket Board. ALSO READ: Cricket: Crowds likely at IPL 2021 matches in UAE - Report Jofra Archer is additionally absent with a physical issue, alongside Ben Stokes. Notwithstanding, the all-rounder feels England has sufficient capability to see out New Zealand while being eager to see some new English ability on show. "I reckon we still have enough in the tank to get a result with some entertaining cricket on show. Guys like James Bracey and Ollie Robinson have fully earned their call ups. You never totally know how it is going to go until they get out there, but it is fair to say we’re all excited to see new talent being given the opportunity to show what they can do and this is their chance to stake a claim for the long term" - he added. Team England will trust their star all-rounder recuperates on schedule for the significant five-match Test series against India, beginning in August. English players will likewise have an eye on the forthcoming Ashes, which begins in December in Australia.

Cricket: 'I'm gutted to miss start of England's summer,' says Ben Stokes

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.<o:p></o:p>

IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. <o:p></o:p>

Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. <o:p></o:p>

"We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/took-it-with-class-srh-assistant-coach-brad-haddin-opens-up-on-david-warner-captaincy-snub-384742" hreflang="en">'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub</a><o:p></o:p>

"After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. <o:p></o:p>

"I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

"You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport."<o:p></o:p>

"It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time."<o:p></o:p>

Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar. IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. "We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'. ALSO READ: 'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub "After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote. Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. "I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' "You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport." "It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time." Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament.

'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Stokes, who was ruled out of IPL 2021 due to a finger injury, hoped that teams don’t end up fighting for low scores on “trash” pitches.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes is of the view that a T20 match should produce a minimum score of 160-170 and added that teams shouldn’t regularly scrap for 130-140 scores due to the slow nature of pitches. <o:p></o:p>

"Hope the wickets don't get worse as the IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash," Stokes tweeted after Mumbai Indians posted 131 for 6 against Punjab Kings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rr-vs-kkr-preview-rajasthan-royals-and-kolkata-knight-riders-fight-for-a-turnaround-379711" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Hope the wickets don’t get worse as the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash..
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1385637614938730501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Chennai had hosted nine IPL 2021 matches till Friday and teams, batting first, have surpassed the 170-run mark only twice in the T20 tournament. Only Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to do score in IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

Scores of 145-150 have turned out to be competitive total to win the match for teams batting first. <o:p></o:p>

Chennai will host its last IPL game of the season on Sunday when Delhi Capitals take on SunRisers Hyderabad before the caravan shifts to Ahmedabad and New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, RCB lead the IPL 2021 points table with four out of four wins while three-time winners CSK are second with three wins and a defeat to their name. Delhi Capitals have also won three matches and sit third in the table.<o:p></o:p>

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Stokes, who was ruled out of IPL 2021 due to a finger injury, hoped that teams don’t end up fighting for low scores on “trash” pitches. Stokes is of the view that a T20 match should produce a minimum score of 160-170 and added that teams shouldn’t regularly scrap for 130-140 scores due to the slow nature of pitches. "Hope the wickets don't get worse as the IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash," Stokes tweeted after Mumbai Indians posted 131 for 6 against Punjab Kings. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround Hope the wickets don’t get worse as the @IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash.. — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) April 23, 2021 × Chennai had hosted nine IPL 2021 matches till Friday and teams, batting first, have surpassed the 170-run mark only twice in the T20 tournament. Only Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to do score in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far Scores of 145-150 have turned out to be competitive total to win the match for teams batting first. Chennai will host its last IPL game of the season on Sunday when Delhi Capitals take on SunRisers Hyderabad before the caravan shifts to Ahmedabad and New Delhi. Meanwhile, RCB lead the IPL 2021 points table with four out of four wins while three-time winners CSK are second with three wins and a defeat to their name. Delhi Capitals have also won three matches and sit third in the table.

Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. <o:p></o:p>

However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-names-his-dark-horses-to-win-ipl-2021-377350" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021</a>

According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes:</h2>

Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season.

Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season.

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ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury. Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021 According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery. Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season. Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season. × ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.

Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. However, Stokes missed out on a well-deserved century after he edged a Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivery at 99. As Stokes walked back to the dugout after&nbsp;his dismissal, he was seen looking up to the heavens and saying "sorry” to his late father.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stokes was even seen showing the folded middle finger gesture as a tribute to his father, Ged. Ben's late father&nbsp;got part of his finger amputated instead of getting it operated on to continue his rugby league career in the 1980s as he couldn't afford to miss matches.&nbsp;

Stokes looked gutted as he made the long walk back to the dugout after missing out on what would have been his fourth ODI century. However, he did the damage in his 99-run knock as he smoked 10 sixes and four boundaries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-odi-bairstow-stokes-power-england-to-6-wicket-win-visitors-level-series-1-1-373502" hreflang="en">2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1</a>

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Ben Stokes said "SORRY" to his Dad after getting out on 99. 
Deserved a 100 ! 
What a knock !🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BenStokes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BenStokes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/GgfUVaUBWy">pic.twitter.com/GgfUVaUBWy</a>
— Anubhav Chatterjee (@anubhav__tweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/anubhav__tweets/status/1375467170608467975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England went on to seal a comfortable six-wicket win in the second ODI to level the series 1-1. Jonny Bairstow hammered a brilliant century while stitching a memorable partnership with Stokes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pandya-curran-brothers-create-history-as-they-become-1st-pair-to-bowl-and-bat-in-tandem-373493" hreflang="en">Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat in tandem</a>

Stokes was named the Gamechanger of the match for his heroics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Stokes received an official warning from on-field officials after mistakenly applied saliva on the match-ball during the second ODI on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Applying saliva has been banned by the ICC after matches resumed post COVID-19 forced break.&nbsp;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. However, Stokes missed out on a well-deserved century after he edged a Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivery at 99. As Stokes walked back to the dugout after his dismissal, he was seen looking up to the heavens and saying "sorry” to his late father. Stokes was even seen showing the folded middle finger gesture as a tribute to his father, Ged. Ben's late father got part of his finger amputated instead of getting it operated on to continue his rugby league career in the 1980s as he couldn't afford to miss matches. Stokes looked gutted as he made the long walk back to the dugout after missing out on what would have been his fourth ODI century. However, he did the damage in his 99-run knock as he smoked 10 sixes and four boundaries. ALSO READ: 2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1 Ben Stokes said "SORRY" to his Dad after getting out on 99. Deserved a 100 ! What a knock !🔥#BenStokes | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/GgfUVaUBWy — Anubhav Chatterjee (@anubhav__tweets) March 26, 2021 × England went on to seal a comfortable six-wicket win in the second ODI to level the series 1-1. Jonny Bairstow hammered a brilliant century while stitching a memorable partnership with Stokes. ALSO READ: Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat in tandem Stokes was named the Gamechanger of the match for his heroics. Earlier, Stokes received an official warning from on-field officials after mistakenly applied saliva on the match-ball during the second ODI on Friday. Applying saliva has been banned by the ICC after matches resumed post COVID-19 forced break.

2nd ODI: Ben Stokes says 'sorry' to his late father after getting dismissed for 99 - Watch

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes.&nbsp;

England, after winning the toss, invited India to bat first but the Men in Blue lost openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a crucial partnership, the Indian captain's wait for his 71st international century continued after he was dismissed for 66.

However, KL Rahul went on to record his fifth ODI ton whereas Rishabh Pant hammered the English bowlers on his way to 77 runs off 40 deliveries. Hardik Pandya finished the innings strongly for India as the Men in Blue posted a massive 336/6 in 50 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pandya-curran-brothers-create-history-as-they-become-1st-pair-to-bowl-and-bat-in-tandem-373493" hreflang="en">Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat together</a>

The visitors, chasing 337, were off to a flyer with openers Bairstow and Jason Roy scoring 110 runs for the opening stand. However, the onslaught began after Roy departed. Ben Stokes and Bairstow, after settling down, made a mockery of the Indian bowlers as they dealt in sixes and boundaries.

While Bairstow scored 124 off 112, Stokes smashed 99 off just 52 deliveries. While Buttler departed for a duck, Dawid Malan and debutant Liam Livingstone finished the job and helped England win by&nbsp;six wickets.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-dead-ball-rule-denies-rishabh-pant-and-team-india-a-boundary-know-the-rule-here-373437" hreflang="en">Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here</a>

With the series firmly poised at 1-1, India and England will lock horns on Sunday for the third and final ODI at the same venue.

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes.

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes. England, after winning the toss, invited India to bat first but the Men in Blue lost openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a crucial partnership, the Indian captain's wait for his 71st international century continued after he was dismissed for 66. However, KL Rahul went on to record his fifth ODI ton whereas Rishabh Pant hammered the English bowlers on his way to 77 runs off 40 deliveries. Hardik Pandya finished the innings strongly for India as the Men in Blue posted a massive 336/6 in 50 overs. ALSO READ: Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat together The visitors, chasing 337, were off to a flyer with openers Bairstow and Jason Roy scoring 110 runs for the opening stand. However, the onslaught began after Roy departed. Ben Stokes and Bairstow, after settling down, made a mockery of the Indian bowlers as they dealt in sixes and boundaries. While Bairstow scored 124 off 112, Stokes smashed 99 off just 52 deliveries. While Buttler departed for a duck, Dawid Malan and debutant Liam Livingstone finished the job and helped England win by six wickets. ALSO READ: Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here With the series firmly poised at 1-1, India and England will lock horns on Sunday for the third and final ODI at the same venue.

2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.&nbsp;

England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Players are totally committed to England and I think that was&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'.&nbsp;

"I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-tammy-beaumont-named-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-369099" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match.&nbsp;

"This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said.&nbsp;

The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team&nbsp;and player as good&nbsp;as possible.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-forget-joe-root-scored-a-double-hundred-kevin-pietersen-defends-england-skipper-369053" hreflang="en">'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper</a>

"Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes.&nbsp;

"The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be."&nbsp;

"For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments.&nbsp;I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are."&nbsp;

"I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve."&nbsp;

England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of India.&nbsp;

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match. England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others. "Players are totally committed to England and I think that was emphasised last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'. "I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet." ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match. "This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said. The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team and player as good as possible. ALSO READ: 'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper "Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes. "The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be." "For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments. I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are." "I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve." England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the gruelling tour of India.

I lost 5 kg in a week, James Anderson lost 3 kg: Ben Stokes reveals 'dramatic weight loss' during India Tests

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. However, after the completion of the 12th over of the India innings, Stokes was spotted applying saliva.<o:p></o:p>

The mistake by the England all-rounder was seen by the umpire and the ball was sanitized properly before the next delivery was bowled. According to the ICC rules on ban of saliva, a team can be given two warnings per innings for the use of saliva and repeated breach of rules would result in a five-run penalty

Meanwhile, at the end of 22 overs, India were 67/2 with Rohit Sharma (41*) and Virat Kohli (13*) at the crease for the hosts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-watch-virat-kohli-loses-cool-over-ben-stokes-during-pink-ball-test-365975" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG- WATCH: Virat Kohli loses cool over Ben Stokes during pink ball Test</a>

Earlier, India lost opener Shubman Gill as Jofra Archer sent him back for 11 off 51. Whereas Cheteshwar Pujara was sent packing for a duck by spinner Jack Leach. Jack Leach has now dismissed Cheteshwar Pujara three times in this series. No spinner has ever dismissed Pujara four times in a home series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scars-from-the-2nd-test-michael-vaughan-left-unimpressed-by-poor-batting-show-by-england-365945" hreflang="en">'Scars from the 2nd Test...': Michael Vaughan left unimpressed by poor batting show by England</a><o:p></o:p>

On Day 1, England were bundled out for a paltry 112 with Axar Patel, playing his second Test, picking up six wickets – his second five-fer in Test cricket. Whereas Ravichandran Ashwin ended with three scalps and Ishant with one. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. However, after the completion of the 12th over of the India innings, Stokes was spotted applying saliva. The mistake by the England all-rounder was seen by the umpire and the ball was sanitized properly before the next delivery was bowled. According to the ICC rules on ban of saliva, a team can be given two warnings per innings for the use of saliva and repeated breach of rules would result in a five-run penalty Meanwhile, at the end of 22 overs, India were 67/2 with Rohit Sharma (41*) and Virat Kohli (13*) at the crease for the hosts. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG- WATCH: Virat Kohli loses cool over Ben Stokes during pink ball Test Earlier, India lost opener Shubman Gill as Jofra Archer sent him back for 11 off 51. Whereas Cheteshwar Pujara was sent packing for a duck by spinner Jack Leach. Jack Leach has now dismissed Cheteshwar Pujara three times in this series. No spinner has ever dismissed Pujara four times in a home series. ALSO READ: 'Scars from the 2nd Test...': Michael Vaughan left unimpressed by poor batting show by England On Day 1, England were bundled out for a paltry 112 with Axar Patel, playing his second Test, picking up six wickets – his second five-fer in Test cricket. Whereas Ravichandran Ashwin ended with three scalps and Ishant with one.

Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a&nbsp;"major boost”.&nbsp;

Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who&nbsp;have been boosted by their historic Test&nbsp;series&nbsp;win&nbsp;against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-reveals-rahul-dravids-message-after-sydney-heroics-358303" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics</a>

"I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket,"&nbsp;Root&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side.&nbsp;

"And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here."&nbsp;&nbsp;

England&nbsp;are set to&nbsp;travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors&nbsp;will also play five T20I&nbsp;matches and three&nbsp;ODIs.&nbsp;

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”.

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”. Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic. England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who have been boosted by their historic Test series win against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics "I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket," Root told reporters. "We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side. "And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here." Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root. "We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here." England are set to travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors will also play five T20I matches and three ODIs.

Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday.

Ged Stokes, 65, was diagnosed with illness in January and spent five weeks in hospital seriously ill in Johannesburg earlier this year. &nbsp;

Stokes, 65, had returned home to Christchurch in New Zealand with his wife Deborah, where he was living at the time of his death.&nbsp;

"It is with great sadness that we learn our former player and coach Ged Stokes has passed away,” his former rugby club Workington Town said in a statement.

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Sad news. RIP Ged. <a href="https://t.co/KmEDFuLRUd">pic.twitter.com/KmEDFuLRUd</a>
— Workington Town is wearen a fyas cuvveren (@WorkingtonTown) <a href="https://twitter.com/WorkingtonTown/status/1336280530506182656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-left-fuming-as-umpires-deny-india-a-drs-opportunity-due-to-early-replay-348355" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay</a>

"Ged is written into the rich fabric of Town history and will be greatly missed.

"Our thoughts are with Deb, Ben and James.

"Ged still has many, many friends here in West Cumbria and we send our thoughts to them too."

Ged coached Workington Town’s fellow side Whitehaven and also took charge of Serbia in the international circuit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricketers-to-leave-new-zealand-quarantine-cleared-to-train-for-1st-t20i-348304" hreflang="en">Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I</a>

Earlier, Ben Stokes had left England’s bio-secure bubble during their series against Pakistan to spend time with his father and family. He also missed the first half of Indian Premier League in the UAE before joining his franchise Rajasthan Royals for the last phase of the tournament.&nbsp;

Prior to jetting off for India, the all-rounder wrote in his Mirror column: "Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we've pulled together and supported each other as best we can.

"And I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences."

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday.

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday. Ged Stokes, 65, was diagnosed with illness in January and spent five weeks in hospital seriously ill in Johannesburg earlier this year. Stokes, 65, had returned home to Christchurch in New Zealand with his wife Deborah, where he was living at the time of his death. "It is with great sadness that we learn our former player and coach Ged Stokes has passed away,” his former rugby club Workington Town said in a statement. Sad news. RIP Ged. pic.twitter.com/KmEDFuLRUd — Workington Town is wearen a fyas cuvveren (@WorkingtonTown) December 8, 2020 × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay "Ged is written into the rich fabric of Town history and will be greatly missed. "Our thoughts are with Deb, Ben and James. "Ged still has many, many friends here in West Cumbria and we send our thoughts to them too." Ged coached Workington Town’s fellow side Whitehaven and also took charge of Serbia in the international circuit. ALSO READ: Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I Earlier, Ben Stokes had left England’s bio-secure bubble during their series against Pakistan to spend time with his father and family. He also missed the first half of Indian Premier League in the UAE before joining his franchise Rajasthan Royals for the last phase of the tournament. Prior to jetting off for India, the all-rounder wrote in his Mirror column: "Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we've pulled together and supported each other as best we can. "And I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences."

Ben Stokes' father, Ged, dies after brain cancer battle

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has called fellow Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicket-keeper Jos Buttler as the most talented player he has ever played with. 
 
In an interview with RR teammate and England pace bowler Jofra Archer, Stokes was asked about the most talented player he has played with. His reply was: "I reckon talent-wise, because of his versatility, Jos Buttler." 
 
Stokes also said that since he didn`t have too many five-wicket hauls, he would like to take a few. "Since I don`t have too many fifers as a bowler, I`d like to have them," said Stokes when asked by Archer to pick between centuries and five-wicket hauls. 
 
The New Zealand-born England all-rounder was in prime form last year and led England to World Cup victory as well as making an Ashes-saving 135 not out in the Test at Headingley, Leeds. The all-rounder picked the 98-ball unbeaten knock of 84 in the World Cup final as his favourite. "Both were great but I`d pick the World Cup as favourite as we had something to show for at the end," he said. 
 
Stokes, 29, picked Mumbai Indians as the team to beat and perform against. 
 
Archer was asked about his favourite wicket in his career and he picked Australian Travis Head from the Old Trafford Test of last year`s Ashes series. 
 
&nbsp;

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has called fellow Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicket-keeper Jos Buttler as the most talented player he has ever played with. In an interview with RR teammate and England pace bowler Jofra Archer, Stokes was asked about the most talented player he has played with.

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has called fellow Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicket-keeper Jos Buttler as the most talented player he has ever played with. In an interview with RR teammate and England pace bowler Jofra Archer, Stokes was asked about the most talented player he has played with. His reply was: "I reckon talent-wise, because of his versatility, Jos Buttler." Stokes also said that since he didn`t have too many five-wicket hauls, he would like to take a few. "Since I don`t have too many fifers as a bowler, I`d like to have them," said Stokes when asked by Archer to pick between centuries and five-wicket hauls. The New Zealand-born England all-rounder was in prime form last year and led England to World Cup victory as well as making an Ashes-saving 135 not out in the Test at Headingley, Leeds. The all-rounder picked the 98-ball unbeaten knock of 84 in the World Cup final as his favourite. "Both were great but I`d pick the World Cup as favourite as we had something to show for at the end," he said. Stokes, 29, picked Mumbai Indians as the team to beat and perform against. Archer was asked about his favourite wicket in his career and he picked Australian Travis Head from the Old Trafford Test of last year`s Ashes series.

IPL 2020: Buttler most talented cricketer I've played with, says Ben Stokes

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