England all-rounder Ben Stokes in July announced that he is taking an indefinite break from cricket to prioritize his mental wellbeing. Stokes has not played any competitive cricket since July and missed the Test series against India at home. Later, citing his mental well-being and fractured left index finger sustained during the first leg of IPL 2021. Moreover, the 30-year-old pulled out of the T20 World Cup selection.
However, the star all-rounder has announced that he is fully fit mentally and physically to make a return to international cricket. Stokes has been included in the revised England squad for the 2021-22 Ashes.
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What did Ben Stokes stated ?
“I had a break to prioritize my mental wellbeing and I got my finger sorted,” Stokes was quoted as saying by the ECB. “I am looking forward to seeing my mates and being on the field with them. I’m ready for Australia,”
Ben Stokes said
Ben Stokes was an integral part of the England squad in the 2019 Ashes at home. The Durham all-rounder amassed 441 runs from 10 innings at an average of 55.12 and scalped eight wickets. Speaking on Stokes’ return, Managing Director of England men’s cricket, Ashley Giles stated. He stated that the availability of the 30-year-old has been excellent news for the England team ahead of the Ashes in Australia.
Managing Director of ECB Ashley Giles about Stokes :
“Following a very successful operation on his finger and several conversations over the last few weeks between Ben and I, our medical staff and his management team, Ben called me to say he was ready to return to cricket and was excited about the prospect of playing a significant role in the Ashes series,”
said Ashley Giles, Managing Director of England men’s cricket
“Time and time again, Ben has demonstrated how important he is to the England team, and having him available for the Ashes series is excellent news for all of us and, in particular, Chris (Silverwood), Joe (Root), and the rest of the players.
“Having not played for some time, we will move forward cautiously over the next few weeks to ensure he is fully prepared across all facets of his game.”
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“Ahead of a very busy period of cricket, we continue to remain mindful of the stresses on all our personnel, and our primary focus continues to be the wellbeing of all of our players and support staff.”
The Ashes will begin on December 8 at the Gabba, Brisbane. With Ben Stokes returning to the squad, England will be eyeing their win in Australia for the first time in 11 years.
