Ben Stokes Returns to England’s ODI Squad for World Cup Defense

In a surprising turn of events, Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain and the celebrated hero of their triumphant 2019 World Cup campaign, has decided to come out of his retirement from 50-over cricket. This decision comes just in time for England’s defense of their World Cup title in India later this year. Stokes, 32, had stepped away from the format last summer, citing the challenge of maintaining peak performance across all three formats of the game.

Stokes’ return to the One Day International (ODI) squad has been met with enthusiasm and relief from fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide. His remarkable performances in both the 2019 50-over World Cup final and the 20-over version in Melbourne last year have solidified his reputation as a big-game player with nerves of steel.

England’s white-ball coach, Matthew Mott, and captain, Jos Buttler, were persistent in their efforts to convince Stokes to reconsider his retirement. They recognized the immense value he brings to the team, not just as a player but also as a leader on and off the field.

Stokes’ inclusion in the 15-man squad for the New Zealand series and the World Cup is a significant boost for England. He will join a squad that boasts nine players who were part of the historic 2019 World Cup-winning team. With his chronic knee injury restricting his all-around capabilities, Stokes is expected to contribute primarily as a specialist batter.

Notably, Surrey’s Gus Atkinson has also received a call-up to the squad. The uncapped fast bowler, known for his express pace, has caught the attention of selectors with his impressive performances in recent matches, including the Men’s Hundred.

Luke Wright, England’s National Selector, expressed his confidence in the strength of the selected squads. He emphasized the depth of talent in England’s white-ball cricket and praised Stokes’ match-winning abilities and leadership qualities. With the upcoming series against New Zealand, one of the world’s top teams, England will have a valuable opportunity to test themselves ahead of the World Cup.

England ODI squad

Jos Buttler (capt), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes

T20I squad

Jos Buttler (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, John Turner, Luke Wood

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