According to ex-England cricketer Mark Butcher, Ben Stokes would hold significance both in Tests and ODIs, even if he focuses solely on batting. Reports suggested that Stokes might reconsider his retirement decision due to the interest of coach Matthew Mott and captain Jos Buttler, who want him to participate in the upcoming ODI World Cup.
However, Stokes has encountered an injury in his left knee that may require surgical intervention, implying that he could potentially participate in the World Cup solely as a dedicated batsman. Talking to Sky Sports, Mark Butcher elaborated on why Ben Stokes focusing solely on batting shouldn’t be an issue, as he has proved to be a game-changer in a couple of World Cup finals. He said:
“That looks like his role anyway. It certainly was during the course of the Ashes this summer. He barely bowled at all. If that’s the way it pans out for him then, so be it. He is still worth his place in the side. He is worth his place in the side almost on captaincy alone. He also happens to be a decent batter (laughs).”
It’s up to Ben Stokes to assess if participating in ODIs can be maintained: Mark Butcher
Mark Butcher believes that Ben Stokes will primarily concentrate on getting ready to captain England during the five-Test series against India in January of the upcoming year. This indicates that he’ll have to plan his knee surgery to ensure fitness for both the World Cup and leading the Test team for England.
Butcher believes this might complicate his involvement in the World Cup. Regarding this, he mentioned:
“Only he will know (whether it’s sustainable) because the knee injury has dogged him for well over a year and will need surgery at some point. Ben’s No. 1 priority is to captain England in that big tour of India coming up at the end of January next year. There are lots of ifs and buts.”
Certainly, having a seasoned player and game-changer like Stokes will undoubtedly strengthen England’s middle order.
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