Ben Stokes to Miss Final Test of Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Due to Injury
Stokes' Absence Felt in Final Test
London (UK), July 30: England's Test captain Ben Stokes will not participate in the fifth and concluding Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, as he is sidelined with a right shoulder injury. His absence is expected to significantly impact the home team.
Stokes has been pivotal in England's performance throughout the series, contributing both with bat and ball during crucial moments. Over four matches, he has scored 304 runs at an impressive average of 43.42, which includes a century. As a bowler, he has been the standout performer, taking 17 wickets, the highest in the series to date. He was also awarded Player of the Match in both the third and fourth Tests.
During a pre-match press conference, Stokes discussed his injury and reflected on his workload management.
“No, not at all. When I’m on the field, I play to win. I give everything I can,” Stokes stated.
“If there’s a moment in the game where I need to set aside my feelings, I’ll do that because this team means everything to me, as does playing for England and winning,” he added.
In Manchester, he delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 141 runs and taking six wickets, including a five-wicket haul that dismantled India's batting lineup.
Although his absence at The Oval is a significant setback for England, Stokes maintains a philosophical outlook on the inherent risks of professional sports.
“There’s nothing I could have done differently. Injuries are part of this profession, and I can’t control them,” he remarked.
England will now have to regroup without their captain for the series finale, but Stokes' leadership and performance will be sorely missed. His resilience and ability to perform under pressure have been crucial to England's resurgence in this series.
Ollie Pope is expected to take over the captaincy in Stokes' absence. The team has also included all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number six and provide a spin option alongside part-time spinner Joe Root.
Missing from the squad are spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse. Joining the team are Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton, along with Nottinghamshire's Josh Tongue.