
Former England captain Michael Atherton believes that England’s talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes should feature in the upcoming clash against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium if he is physically fit.
Ben Stokes, who serves as the Test skipper for England, emerged from his ODI retirement to aid England in their quest to defend the Men’s ODI World Cup title, which they secured in 2019 on home soil. However, Stokes has been sidelined due to a hip injury, and England’s performance in the tournament has been inconsistent. They secured a victory against Bangladesh but suffered defeats against New Zealand and Afghanistan, placing their campaign and semi-final aspirations in jeopardy.
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Atherton explained, “Our understanding was that Stokes was very close to fitness for the Afghanistan game but that England were being understandably cautious. He now has to play against South Africa if he is fit.”
He acknowledged that while Stokes is not a savior, his presence significantly enhances the team. Atherton emphasized, “He is right that he is not the messiah, he can’t just turn it around himself, but he is a very big presence, and England is a better team with him in it. The last time he played in ODI cricket, he got England’s highest score (182 against New Zealand at The Kia Oval last month).”
Considering the absence of an all-rounder due to Harry Brook’s top-scoring performance with 66 runs off 61 balls in England’s unexpected loss to Afghanistan, Stokes will likely be included. This presents a potential issue as England may appear to be short on bowling options, especially since Stokes is participating in this tournament as a specialist batter. Atherton raised concerns about the team’s balance, stating, “I am certain in my mind that I would also play Harry Brook so the problem England have to solve is on the balance of the side. Do they play Liam Livingstone at No 7 as one of five bowlers with Joe Root as the sixth bowler, or do they pick two out-and-out bowlers alongside Reece Topley, Adil Rashid, and Mark Wood?”
In addition, England’s worries are compounded by the lack of impressive performances from all-rounders Chris Woakes and Sam Curran. Woakes conceded 41 runs in his four overs against Afghanistan, while Curran was taken for 46 runs in his four overs during the same match in New Delhi.
Atherton highlighted the concern, stating, “The form of Chris Woakes and Sam Curran is a real concern, and they are both very vulnerable. Curran is going at over eight an over, Woakes at seven and a half runs an over, and they have only taken a couple of wickets each. Curran has been expensive in the middle overs, and Woakes in the powerplay, leaving England chasing the game.”
-IANS