Injury Concerns Loom as ICC Cricket World Cup Nears: Stokes Doubtful for Opener Against New Zealand

As the ICC Cricket World Cup draws closer, England's star all-rounder, Ben Stokes, faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the tournament's opening match against New Zealand on October 5 in Ahmedabad. England captain Jos Buttler has revealed that Stokes, who recently came out of ODI retirement for the World Cup, is not in peak physical condition.

Source: https://www.bhaskar.com/

As the ICC Cricket World Cup draws closer, England's star all-rounder, Ben Stokes, faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the tournament's opening match against New Zealand on October 5 in Ahmedabad. England captain Jos Buttler has revealed that Stokes, who recently came out of ODI retirement for the World Cup, is not in peak physical condition.

Stokes is currently dealing with a minor hip injury, and a final decision on his availability for the opening clash will be made on the day of the match. Buttler emphasized the importance of not taking unnecessary risks with the players, especially at the beginning of such a lengthy tournament. He said, "At the beginning of the tournament, it is not the right moment to take major bets on someone. Consider taking a bigger chance with people's injuries closer to the conclusion. It will be a protracted tournament.

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Despite Stokes' fitness concerns, Buttler assured the media that the all-rounder is diligently working with physiotherapists. He expressed optimism about having a healthy squad to choose from, even if Stokes is unable to participate in the team's practice match against Bangladesh.

In the event of Stokes being unavailable, Harry Brook is expected to step in, occupying the No. 4 position in the lineup, a role he recently performed during a warm-up game against Bangladesh.

Buttler also stressed England's dedication to an aggressive brand of cricket while recognizing the importance of adaptation in the Indian conditions. He said, "A huge part of the game will be swiftly reading the conditions. However, we constantly make an effort to adjust our offensive cricket style to the playing surface.

New Zealand is facing its own set of challenges, with captain Kane Williamson and experienced fast-bowler Tim Southee sidelined. Williamson is still recovering from an injury sustained in March while playing in the IPL. Southee, on the other hand, is nursing a thumb fracture incurred during the fourth ODI against England. His return to the playing XI is anticipated for the match against the Netherlands on October 9.