Ben Stokes is poised to make his long-awaited return to the England Test team for the third match against New Zealand at Headingley, starting on 26 June. The all-rounder, who last played for England in the Ashes series in January 2022, has been included in the squad as a direct replacement for the injured Chris Woakes.
Stokes has been in impressive form for Durham in the County Championship, scoring 406 runs at an average of 67.66 and taking 12 wickets. His selection comes as a significant boost for England, who currently trail the three-match series 1-0 after a 267-run defeat in the first Test at Lord’s. The 31-year-old’s return is expected to bolster England’s batting depth and provide an additional bowling option.
Ben Stokes Named in England Squad for Third Test Against New Zealand
Ben Stokes has been named in England’s squad for the third Test against New Zealand, marking his return to the team after a year-long absence due to a finger injury. The all-rounder, who last played for England in the first Test of the 2021-22 Ashes series, was included in the 13-man squad announced by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday.
England’s Test captain Joe Root welcomed Stokes’ return, stating, “Ben is a world-class all-rounder and his experience and skill will be a valuable addition to the squad.” The third Test, set to begin on 9 June at Headingley, presents an opportunity for Stokes to make an immediate impact.
Stokes’ inclusion comes as a boost to England’s bowling attack, which has struggled in the first two Tests of the series. The hosts currently trail New Zealand 0-2, with the second Test ending in a 267-run victory for the visitors at Lord’s.
The ECB’s selection panel emphasised the importance of having Stokes back in the squad. “Ben’s all-round abilities and leadership qualities make him a key player for England,” said a panel spokesperson. His return is expected to bolster England’s chances in the remaining two Tests of the series.
Stokes has been in good form for Durham in the County Championship, scoring 410 runs and taking 12 wickets in seven matches. His recent performances have reinforced his selection for the third Test.
All-Rounder Passes Fitness Test Ahead of Wellington Showdown
Ben Stokes is set to make his long-awaited return to the England Test team for the third match against New Zealand at Lord’s, starting on Thursday. The all-rounder has been passed fit after recovering from a calf injury sustained during the second Test at Trent Bridge.
England’s limited-overs captain, Eoin Morgan, confirmed Stokes’ availability on Monday. “Ben has trained really well and is ready to go,” Morgan stated. “He’s been working hard to get himself fit and is raring to go.”
Stokes last played a Test match in January during England’s series against the West Indies. He has been sidelined since then due to a series of injuries, including a fractured finger and the recent calf issue.
The 30-year-old’s return bolsters England’s batting lineup, which has struggled in the first two Tests. England trail the three-match series 1-0 after a 5-wicket loss in the second Test at Trent Bridge.
New Zealand, meanwhile, have named an unchanged squad for the third Test. Captain Kane Williamson expressed confidence in his team’s ability to maintain their momentum. “We’ve played well so far and we’re looking to build on that,” Williamson said.
The third Test promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Stokes’ return adding extra intrigue. England will be hoping their all-rounder can provide the spark needed to level the series.
England Captain Set for Return After Month-Long Injury Absence
Ben Stokes is poised to make his return to the England cricket team for the third Test against New Zealand at Headingley. The England captain has been sidelined for a month due to a calf injury sustained during the first Test at Lord’s.
England’s managing director of men’s cricket, Rob Key, confirmed Stokes’ return on Thursday. Key stated, “Ben has worked incredibly hard to get back fit and ready for this Test match. He’s been a huge part of our success over the last few years, and we’re delighted to have him back.”
Stokes last played for England in the first Test against New Zealand, which England won by 269 runs. He has been undergoing rehabilitation at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton under the supervision of the England medical team.
The third Test begins on Friday, with England aiming to secure a series whitewash. Stokes’ return strengthens England’s batting lineup, which has performed consistently well in the series so far.
New Zealand, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat in the second Test at Trent Bridge. The visitors have named an unchanged squad for the third Test, with no new injury concerns reported.
England’s selection for the third Test is expected to be announced later on Thursday. Stokes’ inclusion is anticipated, with the focus now on his match fitness and performance.
Stokes' Inclusion Boosts England's Chances in Decisive Test
Ben Stokes is set to return to the England Test team for the third match against New Zealand at Headingley. The all-rounder has been included in the 13-man squad, with England captain Joe Root confirming the news on social media. Stokes has not played a Test since the first match of the series at Lord’s, which England lost by eight wickets.
England’s selection panel has opted to rest fast bowler Mark Wood for the upcoming Test. Wood played a crucial role in England’s victory in the second Test at Trent Bridge, taking six wickets in the match. His absence will be a blow to England’s pace attack, but the team will hope that Stokes’ return can compensate for the loss.
Stokes’ inclusion is a significant boost for England ahead of the decisive third Test. The all-rounder has been in excellent form in recent months, scoring heavily in the Indian Premier League and taking wickets in the Vitality Blast. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset for England in all conditions.
England’s head coach, Chris Silverwood, has praised Stokes’ impact on the team. “Ben is a world-class all-rounder and his presence in the team gives us a significant advantage,” Silverwood said after the second Test. “He’s a match-winner and we’re delighted to have him back in the squad.”
The third Test against New Zealand begins on Friday 23 June at Headingley. England will be looking to level the series after losing the first Test and winning the second. With Stokes back in the team, England’s chances of success have been significantly boosted.
New Zealand Braces for Stokes' Return in Crucial Series Clash
Ben Stokes is set to make his long-awaited return to the England Test team for the third match against New Zealand at Headingley. The all-rounder has been sidelined since the first Test of the series due to a calf injury sustained during the warm-up. England’s medical team has now cleared him to play, marking a significant boost for the home side.
The third Test begins on Friday, with England trailing the three-match series 1-0 after a 267-run defeat at Edgbaston. Stokes’ return could not come at a more crucial time, with the home side facing an uphill battle to level the series. His all-round abilities will be vital in both batting and bowling departments.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged Stokes’ impact on the game. “He’s a world-class player, and his return will certainly strengthen England’s chances,” Stead said after the second Test. “But we’re focused on our own game and won’t be deterred by his presence.”
England captain Joe Root welcomed the news of Stokes’ availability. “It’s great to have Ben back in the squad,” Root said during the pre-match press conference. “He’s a match-winner, and we’ll be looking to him to make a significant contribution.”
Stokes has played 76 Tests for England, scoring 4,397 runs and taking 211 wickets. His return will complete a formidable top six for England, joining the likes of Root, Dawid Malan, and Jonny Bairstow. The hosts will be hoping his experience and aggression can turn the series around.
Ben Stokes’ return to the England Test team marks a significant moment for both player and country. As he steps back onto the field at Headingley, all eyes will be on how he performs after his extended absence. This third Test against New Zealand serves as a crucial opportunity for Stokes to reclaim his form and contribute to England’s campaign. The outcome of this match could shape the series and set the tone for England’s future in Test cricket. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if Stokes can bring his trademark intensity and skill back to the team.
