ODI World Cup 2023: Here’s why England all-rounder Ben Stokes not playing today’s game against New Zealand
Star all-rounder Ben Stokes will not play in England's opening ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 match against New Zealand, which is a major loss for the side. Due to an injury issue, Stokes, who is renowned for his capacity to win games with both bat and ball, is not available.
The England Cricket Board (ECB) released an official statement confirming Stokes’ absence and specifying that he is nursing a minor injury, which requires rest and recovery. While the nature of the injury was not disclosed in detail, the statement assured fans that it was not a serious or long-term concern.
This development leaves England without one of their key players for the much-anticipated encounter against New Zealand. Stokes, with his ability to turn matches around single-handedly, has been a linchpin in the team’s success in recent years.
“It’s not the time to take big risks”: Jos Buttler
England captain Jos Buttler expressed his confidence in the squad’s depth and versatility, mentioning that they have capable replacements to fill the void left by Stokes. However, the absence of the star all-rounder is undoubtedly a blow to England’s aspirations in the tournament opener.
“It’s not the time to take big risks on someone [like Stokes] at the start of the tournament. Nearer the end, maybe you do take more of a risk with people’s injuries, but it’s going to be a long tournament,” said Buttler.
“Ben’s going to miss this game. Has a niggle with his hip. Other guys missing out are Atkinson, Topley, and Willey,” added the England skipper, after losing the toss in Ahmedabad.
Fans across the globe will be eagerly awaiting Stokes’ return to action, hoping for a swift recovery and his prompt reintegration into the playing XI as the tournament progresses. In the meantime, England will rely on their collective strength and teamwork to overcome the formidable New Zealand side in what promises to be a thrilling encounter to kick off the World Cup.
ENG vs NZ, ODI World Cup 2023: Playing XI
England: Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c & wk), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c & wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Trent Boult
TAGS:-BEN STOKES, ENGLAND, ENGVNZ, ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2023, NEW ZEALAND, ODI ODI WORLD CUP 2023
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