Ben Stokes Returns to England ODI Squad for World Cup Defence
Ben Stokes Returns to England ODI Squad for World Cup Defence
Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain and hero of their 2019 World Cup triumph, has reversed his decision to retire from 50-over cricket ahead of the team’s defence of their title in India this autumn, and will make his comeback for the men’s ODI squad in the forthcoming series against New Zealand.
Stokes, 32, stood down from the 50-over format last summer, claiming that it was unsustainable for him to give his best across all three formats of the game, and that the “England shirt deserves nothing less” than 100% commitment.
However, given his starring roles in the finals of both the 50-over World Cup in 2019 and the 20-over version in Melbourne last November, Stokes’ big-match temperament was an asset that England were loath to do without, with both Matthew Mott, the white-ball coach, and Jos Buttler, the captain, consistent in their desire to lure him back to the ODI format.
He has duly been named in a 15-man squad that Luke Wright, England’s National Selector, confirmed is the line-up that they intend on taking to India in October, where their campaign will get underway against the same opponents, New Zealand, in a rematch of their epic final at Lord’s in July 2019.
Stokes’ return
Stokes’ return is a major boost for England, who will be defending their World Cup title in India later this year. He is one of the most destructive batsmen in the world, and his presence will be a major threat to any bowling attack. Stokes is also an excellent fielder and a handy bowler, so he will be a valuable asset to England in all departments.
Stokes’ decision to return
Stokes’ decision to return to ODI cricket is a surprise, given that he only retired from the format last summer. However, it is clear that he is still hungry for success, and he will be determined to help England defend their World Cup title in India.
Stokes’ role in the team
Stokes is likely to play a key role in England’s batting line-up. He is a powerful striker of the ball, and he will be looking to take the attack to the opposition bowlers. Stokes is also a good player of spin, which will be important in the conditions in India.
Stokes is also likely to bowl some overs of seam bowling. He is not a regular bowler in ODI cricket, but he can be effective in short bursts. Stokes’ ability to bowl will give England more flexibility in their bowling attack.
Impact of Stokes’ return
Stokes’ return is a major boost for England’s chances of winning the World Cup in India. He is a world-class player, and his presence in the team will make them a much more dangerous proposition.
Stokes’ return will also give England more options in their team selection. They will now have a number of world-class players to choose from, which will make them even more difficult to beat.
New Zealand series
England will get their first chance to see Stokes in action in the ODI format when they face New Zealand in a three-match series in July. The series will be a good opportunity for Stokes to get back into the swing of things, and it will also give England a chance to test their new-look team against a strong opponent.
World Cup
England will be the favorites to win the World Cup in India, and Stokes’ return will only make them stronger. They have a well-balanced team, and they will be confident of going all the way in the tournament.
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Conclusion
Ben Stokes’ return to ODI cricket is a major boost for England. He is a world-class player, and his presence in the team will make them a much more dangerous proposition. England will be the favorites to win the World Cup in India, and Stokes’ return will only make them stronger.
England ODI squad
England T20I squad
