England boosted ahead of 2nd ODI as Ben Stokes joins squad for training

England all-rounder Ben Stokes will take part in the entire training session at the Ageas Bowl on Friday with the national team. Following his performance during the training session, a decision will be taken on whether he will be cleared to play the second ODI against South Africa.

Stokes underwent surgery last year to address a cartilage tear on his left knee. The all-rounder was once again due to undergo a scan in Southampton on Thursday evening on the same knee following his difficulty during the first ODI. The issue with the left knee forced Stokes off the field after he managed to bowl just 2 overs for England in the first ODI at Headingley.

However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released an update to state that Stokes will bat, bowl as well as field in Friday’s training session. The all-rounder will then be reassessed at the end of the training session and will accordingly be cleared for the second ODI.

Ben Stokes an essential part of England’s CT plans

English fans were rather worried when Ben had to leave the field. Given his recent form coupled with his inherent ability to contribute in all departments of the game, he is indeed a vital cog in the England team. If the hosts are to indeed lift the Champions Trophy this year, Stokes will have a major role to play in the team’s success, and hence his availability for Friday’s training session comes as an encouragement.

The 25-year-old recently took the IPL by storm, first by fetching a whopping Rs. 14.5 crore in the auction. He repaid the faith of the Rising Pune Supergiant management who invested huge money by some stellar performances during the league phase.

Stokes made some vital contributions to propel the Rising Pune Supergiant to their maiden IPL final. For his all-round performance during the recently concluded IPL, he was named the Most Valuable Player. His most notable performance with the bat came against the Gujarat Lions, during which he smashed an unbeaten 103 to help his team gun down a target of 162.