'Knew I would be playing World Cup': Ben Stokes opens up on taking retirement U-turn

Ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, Ben Stokes made a big announcement that delighted the England cricket fans and other enthusiasts of the game. The All-rounder made it known that that he will be reversing his ODI retirement decision and will enter the carnival of cricket, which is scheduled to start from october 5, 2023. Stokes' arrival has strengthened the England team to a large extent.

3 things you need to know

• Ben Stokes reversed his retirement decision 
• Stokes will feature in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023
• Stokes scored 182 against New Zealand, which is a record score by an Englishman in ODIs

Also Read | 'I Apologized To Him': Ben Stokes Gives Hilarious Response On Breaking Jason Roy’s Record

Ben Stokes breaks huge record 

Ben Stokes has made a spectacular return to the 50-over format. The Test captain of "Three Lions" has been in red-hot form throughout the summer and on Wednesday, he yet again showcased how good a touch he is in right now. Stokes celebrated his return to the ODI format by smashing the highest score by an Englishman. He made 182 in the 3rd ODI against New Zealand and achieved the feat. 

Also Read | Kuldeep Yadav Is The Best Spinner In The World At The Moment, Says Former India Cricketer

Ben Stokes was certain about playing World Cup

Ahead of the World Cup, this is a positive sign for England as Ben Stokes is a key player for England, and has proven his worth again and again on the international front. While him becoming a part of the squad comes as a sudden elation for England supporters, but as per a new development the decision to return wasn't a hasty one rather it was premeditated. According to Stokes, he knew that he would feature in the World Cup and thus was keen to recover from the knee injury. 

"Obviously, i have been asked a lot about my knee over a long period. So I just said that to leave it. I knew that I'd be playing these games and potentially, in the World Cup then where I said that. But it was just the easiest thing to say that and put you (the media) of the radar." Stokes said after the culmination of the England vs. New Zealand match. Courtesy of Stokes' big hundred, England won by a huge margin of 181 runs and took a 2-1 lead over the Kiwis in the series.