Watch : Ben Stokes takes indefinite break from cricket in shocking decision

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Star English all rounder Ben Stokes has taken an indefinite break from international cricket with immediate effect. This news has come as a shock for world cricket as Stokes is amongst the finest cricketers of this generation. A genuine all rounder, Stokes has carried on the legacy of Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff. Both of them were two great all rounders of England in 80s and 90s.

The reason Stokes gave for his decision was that he wants to concentrate on mental well being and heal his finger injury. This means that now he will not be a part of India test series. This comes as a blow to England’s chances considering their brittle batting line up bar Stokes. Moreover India will fancy their chances in the test series even more.

Ben Stokes has been one of the busiest cricketers in international cricket during much of the last year. He is one of the few all formats players for England. That means he has not got the chance to recuperate from exertion. In the post COVID era with teams living in extended bio bubble, the left handed player’s chances of refreshing himself took a further dent.

Spending majority of the time in bio bubble took a toll on Stokes mental health. Moreover he did not get the chance to heal his fingers either when he was called back in emergency to lead the English side against Pakistan at home after entire original squad was forced to go under isolation.

Source – Twitter

When does Stokes comes back?

Currently the explosive all rounder is at the peak of his powers. No one can forget his sensational innings in the 50 overs World Cup Final against England and then a freak innings in the Headingley test in the Ashes. It was due to him only that England won both the matches when they were almost out of it. The fact that he won the matches single handedly speaks volume about Stokes outrageous talent and match winning ability.

ECB chairman Ashley Giles fully supported the decision to take a break from the sport. He said – “Stokes has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing. Spending significant amounts of time away from family, with minimal freedoms, is extremely challenging. The cumulative effect of operating almost continuously in these environments over the last 16 months has had a major impact on everyone’s wellbeing. Ben will be given as long as he needs and we look forward to seeing him playing cricket for England in the future”.

With World T20 and Ashes to follow later in the year, England would hope that Stokes becomes fit to play for the national team soon.

 

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