One of the best all-rounders of this generation Ben Stokes won’t be available in the upcoming India vs England 5-match Test series. Meanwhile, Ben Stokes recently made a comeback in international cricket during the Pakistan series. However, now he has taken an indefinite break from cricket to focus on his mental well-being and recovery from a finger injury. Notably, Ben Stokes fractured his finger during the first phase of IPL 2021 while playing for Rajasthan Royals.

Before making his much-awaited international return the star all-rounder played a few domestic games and a couple of games in The Hundred. Stokes was expected to be a part of the India series however he announced he will take some time off from cricket.

Craig Overton will replace Ben Stokes in the upcoming India Test series

It’s a fact England will be at a huge disadvantage in absence of the Ben Stokes. Notably, England will expect Chris Woakes to fulfill the role of Ben Stokes in the squad. However, Craig Overton has been named as a replacement for star all-rounder by the England and Wales Cricket Board ( ECB). The 27-year-old pacer Overton has represented England in 4 Test and 4 ODI games.

Craig Overton made his Test debut for England against Australia in 2017. Meanwhile, he made his ODI debut against Australia in 2018. So far he has picked 9 wickets in Test cricket and 4 wickets in ODI. Although he doesn’t have much international experience, he has played over 100 first-class games. In the 102 FC games, Craig has picked 359 wickets at an average of 23.28 and an economy of 2.94. Meanwhile, with the bat, Craig Overton has smashed 2871 runs at an average of 22.08.

Joe Root led England will face Virat Kohli led India at Nottingham on 4 August 2021. This series will be part of the new World Test Championship cycle. Both the teams will be looking forward to starting the WTC cycle with a victory.

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