‘We are still hopeful’ - Matthew Mott expects Ben Stokes to take U-turn and play ODI World Cup

England red-ball skipper Ben Stokes retired from ODI cricket in July 2022 and confirmed that he will not participate in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. After the conclusion of Ashes 2023, he once again added saying that he will stay retired in order to stay fit for the Test series in India, which is slated to begin on January 25, 2024.

However, England white-ball coach Matthew Mott has expressed his desire to see Stokes making his return to the 50-overs format as he can be incredibly impactful. He lauded the cricketer saying that his bowling will be extremely important for the team and with the bat, he can change the complexion of the game, just like how he did in the 2019 ODI World Cup finale against New Zealand.

“Jos will probably lead the way on that communication, but Ben’s pretty straight with all of us. There has not been a clear direction on what he’s going to do yet, but we are still hopeful. I’ve always said his bowling would be a bonus, but just look at what he brings with the bat, even in the field.

“Watching him throughout the whole Ashes series, he had such a great presence. He’s done it for years when it comes to performing in one-day cricket and so he’s an invaluable commodity,” Mott was quoted as saying by ICC.

England begin their World Cup campaign on October 5

Defending champions England will take on 2015 and 2019 World Cup finalist New Zealand in their opening game of the campaign. Ahead of that, the selection committee will have to submit a Provincial squad by September 5 and the final list of players by September 27. 

After the submission of their primary list, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer’s future will be cleared. The latter is currently dealing with an elbow injury and is out of action since May. Thus, his progress is currently being monitored.