Ben Stokes is once again taking a break from cricket. The England Test captain is set to miss three months due to a hamstring injury. The 33-year-old will need surgery on his left leg.
Stokes sustained the injury on the third day of the final Test during England’s tour of New Zealand while bowling. This is the second time this year Stokes has torn his left hamstring. The first was in August while playing in The Hundred.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement confirming the injury, stating that Stokes will undergo surgery in January: “Ben Stokes has been ruled out of cricket for at least three months. Tests have revealed a tear in his left hamstring. The Durham all-rounder will undergo surgery in January.”
Stokes himself took to social media to share his thoughts, expressing determination to come back stronger: “There’s an obstacle to overcome… So let’s get started!!! I still have so much to give, more blood, sweat, and tears for my team and this jersey. This is exactly why I’ve permanently inked a Phoenix on my body. See you on the field.”
Stokes’ absence won’t impact England’s Test squad as there are no Tests until May. Due to this injury, the ECB has already ruled out Stokes for the India tour and the Champions Trophy ODI squad. He will also miss the SA T20 franchise MI Cape Town.
