Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] In an unexpected development during the Test series against India, England’s key all-rounder, Ben Stokes, is contemplating an early return to bowling. Following knee surgery in November, Stokes had previously decided against bowling in the series but now, in light of England’s recent loss, he’s open to reassuming his role as both a batter and a bowler.
Stokes shared his cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for a thorough discussion with the medical team to assess the risks involved. He revealed feeling confident in his bowling capabilities during warm-up sessions, although he acknowledged the potential imprudence of bowling too soon.
“I’m not saying yes, I’m not saying no. Me being me, I’m always very optimistic about most things. That will be a more detailed chat with the medical team about what workload I have done to pass me off as not being a massive risk. I managed to bowl at 100% in one of the warm-up days here which made me feel pretty good. I felt like I could have bowled in the game but that would have been stupid,” Stokes stated.
England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, also shared a positive outlook on Stokes’ potential bowling comeback, praising Stokes’ judicious approach to not bowl unless fully prepared. McCullum highlighted the importance of managing Stokes’ workload to prevent any in-game issues.
“Well, it’s good that he’s actually getting into a state where he thinks he might bow. But Ben is clever; he’s really clever as well. He won’t bowl unless he thinks he’s legitimately able to bowl. The problem would be if he starts getting into a spell and then he can’t get out of the spell. So we’ll see what unfolds. “If he does get that bit between his teeth, then let’s see where the danger lies there and try and pull him away from it. But it’s a good sign,” he said.
Stokes’ potential return to bowling promises to improve England’s team dynamics significantly, offering more versatility and strengthening their bowling attack, particularly with his capacity for reverse swing and delivering bouncers.
As England approaches the next Test in Ranchi, the team faces a selection challenge, especially with fast bowlers James Anderson and Mark Wood likely needing rest. Stokes’ bowling could adjust the team’s strategy, potentially allowing for a combination of two seamers and four spinners, with Ollie Robinson expected to join the squad for added depth.
McCullum expressed confidence in the team’s depth, mentioning strong sideline options like Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson. He emphasized the necessity to evaluate pitch conditions and player fitness in Ranchi before finalizing the playing XI. McCullum’s comments reflect a strategic approach to the upcoming match, underscoring the team’s adaptability and readiness to compete under varying conditions.
“We’ve got two really good options on the sideline as well with Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson. So we’ve got a really good squad to pick from. We just need to work out when we get there what conditions we’re going to be confronted with and see the health of the army, and then make a decision on what we go with. “Obviously we haven’t seen the conditions in Ranchi yet. I think it might spin. I guess it should spin but we’ll see when we get there. But, look, we’re really comfortable with what we’ve got and we’re certainly not going to add to the squad. We’ve got a group of players here who have played some outstanding cricket so far over the last three Test matches and whatever XI we decide to go with we will fully back. Hopefully we’ll be in a different situation to what we’re in now,” he added.