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When Would Ben Stokes Play In World Cup 2023? Joe Root Drops A Massive Hint

image-lnr8eewqBen Stokes has missed 3 straight WC games for England (AP Photo)

Ben Stokes could be a shoo-in for a much-anticipated comeback via England's next ICC World Cup 2023 league match against South Africa in Mumbai on the coming Saturday (October 21). 

The premier England all-rounder, whose persistent injury has confined his involvement to a specialist middle-order batter, had an extensive training session on the eve of the fixture and could be making his return at the historic Feroz Shah Kotla ground.  

England stalwart Joe Root provided the latest update on Stokes as he continues to showcase "all good signs" with each passing day in his recovery from a sore left hip. 

The untimely injury forced the charismatic cricketer out of England's first three games of the tournament against New Zealand, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. But he is looking increasingly likely to be picked for the face-off versus the Proteas in Mumbai.


Joe Root Gives latest update on Ben Stokes' injury 

England would wait, however, to get a final word of approval from the physios and medical support. The team management wouldn't want to take a risk with their big-match player if he isn't 100% ready to take part in the Afghan face-off and would prefer Stokes to reserve his energies and best performances for the business end of the competition. 

"Bency (Stokes) is getting better day by day. He trained really well last night. He had a long bat and seems to be improving," Root told the press in Delhi. "He's just got to be ready to play. You all know we have a team with Ben (Stokes) in it is a bit stronger but he's got to be fit to play. We'll see whether it's tomorrow (game vs Afghanistan) or next game or further down the line," he added. 

If not the Afghan clash, Stokes could be primed to play England's next major fixture of the tournament in Mumbai when the defending champions take on South Africa this Saturday (October 21). 

Notably, England made an unconvincing start to their campaign with a disappointing loss against New Zealand but recovered at their best with a one-sided win versus Bangladesh.