Will Ben Stokes Bowl in The Ashes? Here's What The All-Rounder Says
Stokes will lead England in the Ashes [Source: Twitter]
England Test captain Ben Stokes has affirmed his determination to contribute with the ball in the upcoming first Ashes Test against Australia. Stokes, who has been grappling with a persistent left knee injury, endured a limited role as a bowler during his stint with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2023, where he only managed to bowl a solitary over across two matches.
Despite sitting out as a bowler during England's resounding 10-wicket victory over Ireland at Lord's, Stokes became the first captain in Test cricket history to oversee a triumph without batting, bowling, or keeping wickets.
Subsequently, the southpaw dispelled concerns surrounding his availability to bowl during the Ashes. In an interview with BBC Test Match Special following England's commanding win, the seasoned all-rounder assured fans and pundits that he intends to resume his bowling duties in the opening Ashes encounter in Birmingham.
Stokes expressed that his participation in bowling during the warm-up session before the Ireland Test was an initial stride. He conveyed his satisfaction with the progress made thus far and emphasized his intention to continue developing his bowling capabilities leading up to the opening encounter of The Ashes 2023.
"Bowling in the warm-up (before Ireland Test) was a first step. I'm happy, so I'll keep building it up before Edgbaston. I am definitely on course to bowl in the first Test,” said Stokes.
Meanwhile, during the third day of the England-Ireland Test, Stokes encountered a moment of alarm when he appeared to sustain an injury while taking a catch at short fine leg, which resulted in the dismissal of Ireland's Curtis Campher. Despite the discomfort, Stokes resiliently continued to field.
Reflecting on the incident, he elucidated that he had no prior plans to bowl in the game. However, when he took the catch, an awkward landing resulted in a peculiar twist. Despite this, he reassured that the incident did not pose any significant concerns and that he quickly recovered without any lasting consequences.
"It was never my intention to bowl in this game. I landed awkwardly when I took that catch and twisted in a strange way, but it was fine,” added the England skipper.
 "Jatin")
