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Ben Stokes, often hailed as one of the most dynamic and impactful all-rounders in contemporary cricket, has sounded a clarion call to rival teams as the ODI World Cup 2023 looms on the horizon. Known for his aggressive style of play and his uncanny ability to change the course of a game, Stokes is gearing up for this prestigious tournament after coming back from ODI retirement in August.
A proven match-winner
Stokes etched his name in cricketing history with his pivotal role in England’s dramatic victory in the 2019World Cup. He was named as the Player of the match in the summit clash. the 32-year-old ability to perform exceptionally well with both the bat and the ball has solidified his reputation as a game-winner in the realm of limited-overs cricket.
England’s quest for a repeat
Under the leadership of Eoin Morgan, the English team clinched their first 50-over World Cup title four years ago by triumphing over New Zealand in a thrilling final at Lord’s. However, the upcoming tournament poses a formidable challenge, as the playing conditions in India differ significantly from those on their home turf. England’s campaign in the quadrennial event begins with a showdown against the same Blackcaps on October 5 in Ahmedabad, setting the stage for an intense battle for supremacy.
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Confidence in Jos Buttler’s leadership
In an interview with The Guardian, Stokes expressed his unwavering confidence in the leadership of Jos Buttler and the team’s collective ability to defend their World Cup title. He emphasized that England are a team brimming with exceptional talent, seasoned by countless high-pressure encounters. The English stalwart pointed out the unique intensity of representing one’s country in crucial fixtures watched by billions, an experience that distinguishes international cricket from franchise-based T20 competitions.
” I don’t think it’s arrogance to say we’re a very good team. We’re in the mix. And what we now have in our favour, I think, is experience of huge games – an edge against sides who don’t play as many,” Stokes said.
” I know franchise T20 cricket means a lot more players have been exposed to those situations; it’s great for that. But it doesn’t come close to wearing your country’s shirt, billions watching, knowing if you lose, you’re out,” the Christchurch-born concluded.
England’s dominance in white-ball cricket
The England cricket team currently stands as the undisputed force in white-ball cricket. They hold the world champion title in both ODIs and T20Is, a testament to their skills and consistency in limited-overs formats. They have a golden opportunity to join the ranks of the West Indies and Australia as one of the few teams to successfully defend their 50-over title.
