Ben Stokes Takes ODI Retirement Back As England Name Squad for New Zealand Series

In a surprising twist that has stunned cricket fans, renowned all-rounder and 2019 World Cup hero for England, Ben Stokes, has reversed his ODI retirement. This unexpected move comes as he is included in England’s roster for the upcoming four-match ODI series against New Zealand.

Notably, the 32-year-old retired from ODI cricket in July 2022, citing the unsustainable schedule with three formats in international cricket.

Reports suggest that a collective effort led by England’s Captain Jos Buttler, and Coach Mathew Mott convinced Ben Stokes to reconsider his retirement, paving the way for his participation in the upcoming 2023 World Cup set to take place in India this October.

Stokes, who played 105 ODIs was the MVP in England’s 2019 World Cup victory. Stokes smashed 465 runs in 11 games, saving his best for last with an epic unbeaten 84 run knock in the final against New Zealand.

In another major development, fast bowling duo of Gus Atkinson and John Turner have received their maiden England all-ups, with the latter only being included in the T20I squad.

England ODI Squad for New Zealand Series:

Jos Buttler (C), 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.

England T20I Squad for New Zealand Series:

Jos Buttler (C), Rehan Ahmed, Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, John Turner, Luke Wood.

The two teams will lock horns against each other in the first of the four T20Is on August 30 in Chester-le-Street. The four-match ODI series kick start on September 8 in Cardiff.