Ben Stokes Cleared to Lead England Against Zimbabwe in Upcoming Test

Ben Stokes has been cleared to captain England against Zimbabwe after recovering from hamstring surgery. The England squad, featuring uncapped players like Sam Cook, prepares for a four-day Test at Trent Bridge from May 22-25. Zimbabwe, fresh off a victory against Bangladesh, faces off against England for the first time in 20 years.

Ben Stokes has officially been cleared to lead England in their upcoming one-off Test match against Zimbabwe. The announcement comes as part of a 13-man squad revealed on Friday. This marks a significant return for the 33-year-old all-rounder, who has been recovering from hamstring surgery since injuring himself in New Zealand last December. This was particularly challenging as it was his second tear within just five months.

Though Stokes has yet to compete in any matches for his county team, Durham, this season, he is poised to take the helm in the opening Test of the home season at Trent Bridge, scheduled from May 22 to 25. The match is notable as it will be a four-day format instead of the usual five-day games. England selector Luke Wright has expressed confidence in Stokes’ ability to contribute effectively with both bat and ball, even without prior match play.

“All things being equal, he’s going to be fine to play a full part,” stated Wright. He added that caution may be required regarding the number of overs he bowls, given his recent return from injury. According to Wright, Stokes has been diligently preparing in the nets, indicating he is thrilled to rejoin the squad: “He’s ready and raring to go and excited about getting stuck in.”

In addition to Stokes, uncapped Essex fast bowler Sam Cook has made the squad and is a potential candidate for his first Test appearance. Injuries to fellow pace bowlers Mark Wood, Brydon Carse, Chris Woakes, and Olly Stone have opened up this opportunity. Jofra Archer remains ruled out for red-ball international participation at this time.

Cook, now 27, boasts an impressive first-class record, having taken 318 wickets at an average under 20. However, there are questions about whether his pace translates effectively to the Test arena. Nonetheless, Wright believes Cook possesses significant skills, stating, “He is not just a swing bowler; he swings and seams the ball. He gets bounce. He’s a highly skilled bowler… incredible skill.”

Alongside Cook, Jordan Cox will serve as an additional uncapped player, potentially filling the reserve batsman role. Jacob Bethell, who showcased his talent during England’s tour of New Zealand, is currently participating in the Indian Premier League. Josh Tongue of Nottinghamshire may also make a comeback in Test matches, seeking to impress at his home ground after last appearing during the 2023 Ashes. The squad also retains off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, though he has faced challenges in the County Championship.

This Test will mark Zimbabwe’s first appearance in England since 2003, a significant occasion. Though they are currently at the bottom of the Test rankings, Zimbabwe recently celebrated their first Test victory in four years against Bangladesh. “With anyone, you never underestimate them,” remarked Wright on Zimbabwe’s capabilities. “It will be great welcoming them over here; it’s been a long time. It’s a great opportunity for the guys to get stuck in.”

The Trent Bridge Test sets off a busy home summer for Stokes and his team, who will later take on India in a five-Test series and look ahead to the 2025/26 Ashes in Australia.

In conclusion, Ben Stokes’s return as captain of England against Zimbabwe is a crucial development for the team. With a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers like Sam Cook, the squad is gearing up for what is anticipated to be an exciting Test match. As Zimbabwe approaches, their recent victory suggests a competitive matchup ahead.

Original Source: www.cricketnmore.com