• sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 02/20/2024
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Brendon McCullum, the head coach of the England cricket team, has hinted at the potential return of Ben Stokes as a bowler in the final two Tests of the ongoing series against India. Stokes, England’s captain, has been steadily progressing in his bowling comeback, having undergone knee surgery at the end of November.

Stokes, known for his all-round prowess, last bowled competitively in June during the second Test against Australia at Lord’s. Originally ruled out from bowling in the India series after a pact with his physiotherapist, Stokes has surprised many with his rapid recovery. The possibility of his return to the bowling crease was reopened by Stokes himself, who expressed that progress had been “a lot faster than I thought it would.” Although cautious about not rushing back, Stokes hinted at a potential comeback, stating, “I’m not saying yes, I’m not saying no.”

Brendon McCullum, addressing the situation, acknowledged Stokes’s optimism, stating, “Well, it’s good that he’s actually getting into a state where he thinks he might bowl. But Ben is clever; he’s really clever as well. He won’t bowl unless he thinks he’s legitimately able to bowl.”

McCullum emphasized the need for balance, acknowledging that while Stokes wouldn’t engage in anything reckless, as the head coach, he had a responsibility to ensure Stokes didn’t push himself unnecessarily. “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,” McCullum said.

Stokes’s potential return as an all-rounder could significantly enhance England’s XI, providing more balance to the team. In the third Test, England opted for two seamers, James Anderson and Mark Wood, but they struggled in the second innings, prompting discussions about the need for a balanced bowling attack.

The final two Tests in the series are crucial for England, who are trailing 2-1. The return of Stokes as a bowler would not only bolster the team’s bowling options but also add depth to their lineup. The decision on Stokes’s participation will depend on discussions with the medical team and assessing the workload he can handle without posing a significant risk.

England faces selection decisions with Anderson and Wood’s workload, and Stokes’s potential return to bowling could be a game-changer in determining the team’s composition for the upcoming Tests in Ranchi and Himachal Pradesh.