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In a significant setback for the England cricket team, star all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of their opening match against New Zealand in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023. Stokes, known for his match-winning abilities with both bat and ball, is unavailable due to an injury concern.
The England Cricket Board (ECB) released an official statement confirming Stokes’ absence and specifying that he is nursing a minor injury, which requires rest and recovery. While the nature of the injury was not disclosed in detail, the statement assured fans that it is not a serious or long-term concern.
This development leaves England without one of their key players for the much-anticipated encounter against New Zealand. Stokes, with his ability to turn matches around single-handedly, has been a linchpin in the team’s success in recent years.
“It’s not the time to take big risks”: Jos Buttler
England captain Jos Buttler expressed his confidence in the squad’s depth and versatility, mentioning that they have capable replacements to fill the void left by Stokes. However, the absence of the star all-rounder is undoubtedly a blow to England’s aspirations in the tournament opener.
“It’s not the time to take big risks on someone [like Stokes] at the start of the tournament. Nearer the end, maybe you do take more of a risk with people’s injuries, but it’s going to be a long tournament,” said Buttler.
“Ben’s going to miss this game. Has a niggle with his hip. Other guys missing out are Atkinson, Topley and Willey,” added the England skipper, after losing the toss in Ahmedabad.
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Fans across the globe will be eagerly awaiting Stokes’ return to action, hoping for a swift recovery and his prompt reintegration into the playing XI as the tournament progresses. In the meantime, England will rely on their collective strength and teamwork to overcome the formidable New Zealand side in what promises to be a thrilling encounter to kick off the World Cup.
ENG vs NZ, ODI World Cup 2023: Playing XI
England: Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c & wk), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c & wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Trent Boult
