Ben Stokes is again leading England for the third and final Test, barely a fortnight after the late-night “curfew” episode that forced him out of Trent Bridge. Head coach Brendon McCullum insisted earlier this week that “they are still good mates”, playing down any hint of lingering tension. With the series locked at 1-1 against New Zealand, England have five days at The Oval to regain focus and, they hope, control of the narrative.
Stokes’ reinstatement was widely expected once the brief internal review wrapped up. The all-rounder batted and bowled at full tilt on Tuesday and, in typically clipped style, told reporters: “I’m rested, I’m ready, that’s all that matters.”
Whether the return truly caps nightclub-gate is open to debate. The ECB has yet to wheel out director of cricket Rob Key, a silence that leaves some observers wondering who actually calls time if discipline slips again.
For now, attention shifts back to runs, wickets and the small matter of a deciding Test. England need Stokes’ balance in the middle order, New Zealand fancy a rare away win, and the rest of us will see which storyline wins out.
