Ben Stokes Likely to Undergo Knee Surgery After ODI World Cup

Ben Stokes Likely to Undergo Knee Surgery After ODI World Cup

VoM News Desk | September 10, 2023 | 12:46 AM IST | Breaking News, Sports | Follow on Google News

Ben Stokes Likely to Undergo Knee Surgery After ODI World Cup. Image/AFP

In a significant development, England’s Test captain, Ben Stokes, is strongly considering knee surgery following the conclusion of the ODI World Cup. This decision casts doubts over his availability for the crucial five-match away series against India scheduled for next year. Once hailed as a premier all-rounder, Stokes has been grappling with chronic tendonitis in his knee, which has hampered his ability to bowl during the summer season. In recent times, he has predominantly played as a specialist batter during the last three Ashes series, a role he’s expected to continue in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand and the impending World Cup in India next month.

Stokes remained discreet about the details of his impending surgery but expressed his intention to address his long-standing knee issue after the World Cup. “I know what’s going to happen; I just don’t think now is the right time to disclose what I’m planning,” Stokes revealed to reporters ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand. He assured that a well-devised plan is in place for his recovery and rehabilitation post the World Cup.

“I want to be playing next summer as a genuine all-rounder. This winter is all about participating in the World Cup and then getting this knee sorted,” he added, emphasizing his eagerness to regain his all-round prowess.

However, if Ben Stokes opts for knee surgery after the World Cup, he could face a race against time to regain full fitness for the challenging five-Test series in India, commencing on January 25. The recovery period from knee surgery typically spans 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the operation and the subsequent rehabilitation required. Given Stokes’ lucrative IPL contract, a logical timeline for his return to top-flight cricket might align with next year’s IPL season.

Stokes recently rejoined England’s ODI squad after reversing his decision to retire from the format, specifically to participate in the World Cup in India, which kicks off on October 5 and culminates with the grand finale on November 19.

Evolving Landscape in Cricket

Acknowledging the changing landscape of cricket, Stokes expressed his understanding and comfort with players’ decisions to opt for lucrative T20 leagues over central contracts. He recognized that the allure of franchise cricket is compelling for many players, and as a captain, he values the individual choices made by his teammates.

“We’ve got to understand, and I’ve got to understand as a captain, that there might be some decisions players make, and I’m very comfortable and aware that something like that might happen,” Stokes commented. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the rapidly evolving nature of cricket and the impact it has on players’ career choices.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.