England they reminded Ben Stokes XI playing for the third and final Test against New ZealandThe all-rounder is set to resume captaincy duties at Nottingham Trent Bridge from June 25. The hosts confirmed their line-up ahead of the series decider with Stokes and the fast bowler. Gus Atkinson both are back after missing the second Test due to disciplinary action.
With the three-match series tied at 1-1, England will be hoping the return of their captain can provide the spark they need to secure another home series win.
Ben Stokes is back in charge after the nightclub row
Stokes was unavailable for the second Test after a written warning England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The punishment follows an investigation into an incident involving Stokes and Atkinson at a London nightclub shortly after England’s opening Test victory.
Although the ECB concluded that neither player was responsible for the violence, both were found to have breached their contractual obligations and were subsequently left out of the squad for the match at The Oval.
In Stokes’ absence, former captain Joe Root took over as captain. However, England struggled badly and suffered a crushing defeat by 253 runs, allowing New Zealand to level the series and set up a winner-takes-all final in Nottingham. Stokes’ return is a significant boost for England not only because of his leadership qualities but also because of the energy and conviction he brings to the side.
A number of changes have been made in England’s 11th squad
England made numerous adjustments to the team that lost the second Test. Along with the return of Stokes and Atkinson, the keeper-batsman Jamie Smith replaced James Rew behind the stumps.
Spinner Shoaib Bashir also called a recall coming for Sonny Baker. Meanwhile, Jordan Cox and Matthew Fisher they were denied selection for the final Test.
England playing 11 for the 3rd Test: Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.
The inclusion of Archer, Atkinson and Tongue gives England a quick attack option, while Bashir provides a specialist spin option for the conditions which is expected to help the bowlers as the match progresses.
Also READ: Stuart Broad reveals why he is excited to watch Vaibhav Suryavansh in England
The series decider offers Stokes a chance at redemption
While Stokes’ return boosts England on paper, the captain himself will be keen to improve on his personal performance from the opening Test at Lord’s. Although England won the contest by 115 runs, Stokes endured a difficult outing. The left-handed all-rounder managed just 12 and 0 with the bat and had limited impact with the ball, claiming just one wicket in seven overs while bowling throughout the match.
As a result, the Nottingham Test presents him with a crucial opportunity to silence his critics and remind everyone of his worth as one of the game’s best all-rounders. In addition to his individual form, Stokes will also want to move on from the off-field controversy that led to his temporary suspension. With the series on the line and home pride at stake, England will once again look to their captain to lead from the front.
Also READ: Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson return to name the England squad for the 3rd Test against New Zealand.
