Ben Stokes Optimistic Ahead of England's Test Series Against New Zealand

As England prepares for a crucial Test series against New Zealand, captain Ben Stokes shares insights on the team's motivation and his recovery from injury. With a focus on players like Shoaib Bashir and Ollie Robinson, Stokes expresses optimism for the upcoming matches. England aims to improve its standing in the ICC World Test Championship, currently sitting seventh. The series promises to be an exciting contest as both teams vie for victory.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 13:45 IST

England's Motivation for the Upcoming Series

As England gears up for their ICC World Test Championship matches, captain Ben Stokes expresses confidence in his team's determination to clinch a series victory against New Zealand. The three-match series kicks off on June 4, and Stokes emphasized, "You'll witness an England team eager to win. Our goal is to secure the series."

Stokes Discusses Injury Recovery

Stokes enters the series following his recovery from a facial injury sustained during training, which required surgery for a broken cheekbone. He remarked, "I came through it well; it could have been worse. I'm excited to get started after such a long wait."

Support for Shoaib Bashir

The England squad for the first Test, announced on Tuesday, includes off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who was absent from the previous series against Australia. Stokes believes Bashir has earned his place, stating, "This is the first time he has had an extended period to play for Derbyshire since joining the England team. He has focused on improving his technique and has shown significant progress."

"Bashir has been bowling well for Derby, and we see a bright future for him as a spinner in England's lineup. He is in a good place and is eager to contribute. Although his last experience against Australia wasn't as expected, he has worked hard and improved as a bowler, making him deserving of a spot in the squad."

Praise for Ollie Robinson

Ollie Robinson, who last represented England during the 2024 tour of India, is another key player in the squad. Stokes praised Robinson's abilities, stating, "We have communicated with Ollie, and he understands why he is back in the team. When he performs at his best, he is world-class."

"His statistics in Test matches are among the elite. The challenge for him now is to maintain his position in the team. Despite the frustration of being away, I hope to see Ollie Robinson in an England shirt for the next several years."

Current Standings and Squad Overview

Robinson has taken 76 wickets in 20 Tests and will be joined by fellow pace bowlers Sonny Baker, Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and captain Stokes. Currently, England ranks seventh in the WTC standings after 10 matches, while New Zealand holds the second position with two victories from three matches.

England squad: Ben Stokes (c), Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.