Stokes reverses his decision to retire from ODI format

Ben Stokes reverses his decision to retire from ODIs for the upcoming World Cup

Stokes announced his retirement from ODIs, just two months following his appointment as the captain of England's test team

(Cricket News) England’s iconic all-rounder, Ben Stokes, has taken a U-turn on his decision to retire from one-day internationals (ODI), and the country’s cricket board announced on Wednesday that he has been included in the squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand.

Stokes had announced his retirement from ODIs in July of the previous year, just two months after being appointed as England’s test captain. This reversal paves the way for his participation in England’s endeavor to defend their 50-overs World Cup title set for October and November.

“I am confident that every fan will delight in witnessing (Stokes) once again donning the England ODI jersey,” stated national selector Luke Wright in a press release.

Aged 32, Stokes was honored as the Player of the Match in the 2019 World Cup final on home turf, delivering an unbeaten 84 runs as England triumphed over New Zealand in a thrilling super over.

Additionally, he showcased his prowess by scoring an unbeaten 52 in the Twenty20 World Cup final last year, leading England to victory over Pakistan and securing the title in the final held in Melbourne.

Persistent concerns regarding Stokes’ recurring left knee injury, which resurfaced this year, continue to linger. During the last three Ashes tests in July, he refrained from bowling as England managed to overturn a 2-0 deficit against Australia, ultimately tying the series at 2-2.

Previously, white-ball coach Matthew Mott had expressed his eagerness to welcome Stokes back into the ODI squad without hesitation.

Stokes’ ODI journey encompasses 105 matches since his debut against Ireland in 2011, during which he has amassed 2,924 runs, featuring three centuries, at an average of 38.98 and a strike rate of 95. Additionally, he has clinched 74 wickets and stands out as one of the most agile fielders in the team.

In a fresh development, uncapped Surrey pace bowler Gus Atkinson has earned a spot in the 15-member ODI squad for the series against New Zealand. Furthermore, Atkinson, along with Josh Tongue and John Turner, have received their first call-ups to the T20I squad.

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