Ben Stokes has been cleared to captain England against Zimbabwe in a one-off Test match later this month, after recovering from hamstring surgery. The 13-man squad includes uncapped Essex bowler Sam Cook and features several players sidelined by injuries. This Test marks Zimbabwe’s first match in England since 2003, following their recent win against Bangladesh.
Ben Stokes has officially been cleared to lead England in the upcoming one-off Test against Zimbabwe later this month. The 33-year-old all-rounder, who has been recovering from a hamstring surgery following a sports injury in December, was included in a 13-man squad announced on Friday. This marks his return after a significant hiatus due to injury complications, as he dealt with two hamstring tears over five months.
Stokes has yet to play for Durham this season but is set to captain England in this home series opener, scheduled at Trent Bridge from May 22 to 25. Notably, this Test is a four-day match, differing from the customary five days. Selector Luke Wright expressed confidence in Stokes’ ability to contribute fully with both bat and ball against Zimbabwe, despite not being involved in any competitive matches beforehand.
“All things being equal, he’s going to be fine to play a full part,” said Wright. He mentioned that while Stokes would likely bowl but might need some overs management to ensure his safe return. Stokes has been actively preparing in practice sessions, and Wright noted he’s eager to hit the ground running.
The squad also features uncapped Essex seamer Sam Cook, who may have the opportunity to make his Test debut. With injuries hitting several key players, including Mark Wood, Brydon Carse, Chris Woakes, and Olly Stone, this is a crucial moment for Cook. Archer, another notable fast bowler, isn’t deemed ready for red-ball cricket yet.
Cook, 27, boasts an impressive record of 318 first-class wickets averaging under 20, but concerns linger about his pace effectiveness in Test matches. However, as England’s core fast bowlers, Anderson and Broad, have retired, Cook might fill a vital swing bowler role despite lesser speed.
Wright praised Cook’s skills, saying, “He swings and seams the ball… he’s a highly skilled bowler.” Alongside him, fellow uncapped player Jordan Cox, also from Essex, might serve as a backup batsman. Jacob Bethell, who did well during England’s New Zealand tour, is currently engaged in the Indian Premier League.
Josh Tongue, a Nottinghamshire paceman, hopes to return to Test cricket after last playing in the 2023 Ashes. He may join an attack featuring Gus Atkinson while off-spinner Shoaib Bashir retains his place despite underwhelming performances in the County Championship.
This Test will be Zimbabwe’s first in England since 2003. The Zimbabwean team, currently at the bottom of the Test rankings, recently achieved a significant win against Bangladesh, marking their first Test victory in four years. Wright emphasized the importance of this match, saying, “With anyone, you never underestimate them. That win against Bangladesh is a great effort.”
The upcoming match at Trent Bridge starts a busy season for Stokes and the England team, as they will also face India in a five-Test series ahead of the 2025/26 Ashes series in Australia.
In conclusion, Ben Stokes has returned to lead England against Zimbabwe after overcoming significant injury challenges. He is expected to play a full role despite no prior competitive matches this season. The squad also sees the potential debut of Sam Cook and a mix of experienced and young players as they gear up for a busy summer of cricket. This match is significant not just for England but also marks a long-awaited return for Zimbabwe’s Test side to England after two decades.
Original Source: www.cricketnmore.com
