Ben Stokes comes out of ODI retirement to play for England in World Cup in India: Report

Reports from Sky Sports suggest that England's Test captain, Ben Stokes, has taken the decision to make himself eligible for the forthcoming ODI World Cup in India. This move comes just a few months before the highly anticipated ICC event, which is set to take place in October-November. Notably, Stokes, who is 32 years old, had previously retired from One Day International (ODI) cricket following a series against South Africa in July 2022.

3 things you need to know

• Ben Stokes takes back his ODI retirement ahead of the Cricket World Cup
• He was a crucial member of the England side that won the 2019 World Cup
• The World Cup is scheduled to be held in India from October 5 to November 19

Also Read: 'The Next Test For Bazball': Ex-England Captain Warns Ben Stokes & Co Ahead Of India Tour

Ben Stokes reverses ODI retirement ahead of World Cup

Ben Stokes, who announced retirement from ODI cricket citing workload issues, was one of the key players for England in the previous World Cup in 2019. Thanks to Stokes' performance in the final of the competition, England were able to lift their maiden ODI World Cup trophy. Stokes helped England tie the match against New Zealand in the summit clash at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London. He scored an unbeaten 84 off 98 balls to level the score and take the game into the super over. 

The nail-biting super over ended in a tie as well, following which England were handed the World Cup courtesy of their superior boundary count in the match. Ben Stokes received the player of the match for his brilliant effort. 

Despite earlier indications that Ben Stokes might not participate in One Day International matches for England, recent reports have emerged indicating that the prominent Durham player is set to reverse his decision and make a comeback for the World Cup this year. Should Stokes indeed choose to end his ODI retirement, it would undoubtedly provide a significant uplift to England's prospects in the prestigious 50-over event.

Also Read: Will Bazball Work Against India In The Upcoming Series? Ben Stokes Gives An Apt Response

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

The deadline for submitting squads for the Cricket World Cup 2023 is September 5, and the England selectors are scheduled to convene on Tuesday for this purpose. Adjustments to the squads can be made up until September 27. Every nation is restricted to selecting a total of 15 players for their squads, alongside the option to include three additional traveling reserves. The World Cup is slated to be held in India from October 5 to November 19. 

Image: AP