Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain, has voiced strong confidence in his ability to participate fully as an all-rounder during England’s upcoming series against Zimbabwe and India this summer. After spending five months recovering from a hamstring injury, Stokes feels his rehabilitation process has been more effective this time compared to last year when he hurried his return.
The original injury took place during the Hundred last August. Although Stokes managed to return for the Test series against Pakistan in the autumn, he aggravated the injury two months later in New Zealand. With crucial series against India at home and Australia away on the horizon, Stokes has taken a cautious route in his recovery.
“I feel great,” Stokes told Sky Sports’ Nasser Hussain. “Training and playing are completely different: no matter what you do at training, you just cannot replicate the intensity that your body is put through in a game… I’m eager to get back, but realising it’s quite different from training.” He expressed his determination to fill his role as a fourth seamer and a batting force at number six, saying, “I want to dominate every situation that I’m in, with bat or ball, and I’m very, very confident I can do that.”
His expedited return last year didn’t go as planned, prompting a change in approach. “This time around, the medical team and myself were like, ‘We’re just going to absolutely nail it this time,'” Stokes noted. “It was a slow and long process… but not nearly as taxing.”
Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum have discussed ensuring he doesn’t overexert himself. “We’ve spoken about how he’s going to help me better,” Stokes said. “I’m 33, and I don’t want to be sidelined unnecessarily.”
The focus of England’s training has also come under scrutiny following the white-ball tour to India. Rob Key, England Cricket’s managing director, acknowledged a potentially “relaxed” image but highlighted the team’s strong work ethic. Stokes defended his team robustly. “When you hear comments saying that we don’t train hard enough… it’s just complete rubbish,” he insisted. “An international sportsman must have a great work ethic. Our team’s work ethic is incredible.”
Peppered with disbelief at the team’s perceived lack of commitment, Stokes emphasises that every action is informed by how it benefits players and the team. This measured approach highlights the careful yet driven attitude England hopes to embody as they prepare for significant upcoming challenges.
