'He loves the big moments': ECB confirms that Ben Stokes is coming out of ODI retirement

ENG vs NZ: Putting an end to all the speculations, English Test captain and the hero of the 2019 ODI World Cup Final, Ben Stokes has decided to come out of ODI retirement. Stokes has been named in the English squad that will play a four-match ODI series against New Zealand. The Kiwis will tour England to play eight white ball matches consisting of four T20Is and four ODIs. The series will commence on August 30, 2023.

3 things you need to know:

• Ben Stokes' heroics helped England to win the 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup
• The English all-rounder announced his ODI retirement on July 18, 2022
• Stokes might play purely as a batsman for England in the upcoming ODI World Cup

ECB selector Luke Wright in a statement said:

We have been able to name two extremely strong squads that underline the depth of talent we enjoy in white-ball cricket. The return of Ben Stokes only adds to that quality with his match-winning ability and leadership. I am certain that every fan will enjoy seeing him back in an England ODI shirt again. We’re also excited to give first international call-ups to both Gus Atkinson and John Turner while Josh Tongue has deserved a place in the T20 squad after impressing during the Ashes.

Any series against New Zealand is closely fought and will provide us with an ideal opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the world.

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While shocking the entire world on July 18, 2022, the English Test skipper and all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his ODI retirement citing issues related to the heavy workload on English players. In his retirement post, the all-rounder was very specific about all the three formats taking a toll on his body and his game. There had been various reports of England coach Matthew Mott and skipper Jos Buttler trying to convince Stokes to come out of ODI retirement and this has now been confirmed as England announce their squad for a four match ODI series against New Zealand.

England's squad for New Zealand series

Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.