Photo by Ben Stokes Injury Adds to England’s Concerns Ahead of Sri Lanka Test Series
The Hundred has been an exciting tournament this season, with thrilling matches and impressive performances from some of the world’s top players. However, it was a worrying moment for England cricket fans during the recent match between Northern Superchargers and Manchester Originals, as their captain Ben Stokes was forced to retire hurt.
The all-rounder was opening the batting for the away side and was clearly in discomfort as he pulled up while sprinting for a quick single. Stokes had just started bowling again for England after undergoing surgery on a long-term left knee injury in late 2023.
Stokes’ England teammate and Superchargers captain Harry Brook admitted the injury ‘doesn’t look great, unfortunately.’ Brook told Sky Sports that Stokes would be getting a scan the following day and they would have to wait and see how he is.
Ben Stokes injured during The Hundred match
Former England skipper Michael Atherton, providing punditry on The Hundred for Sky Sports, said it appeared ’extremely unlikely’ that Stokes would be available for the opening Test against Sri Lanka, starting on August 21. Atherton based his assessment on the way Stokes gripped the back of his leg, which looked like a hamstring issue to him.
‘The way that he gripped the back of his leg looked like hamstring to me, which may well be a significant period out. But it might not be a structural problem, so fingers crossed it’s that and that it’s not as bad as it initially looked and that he can play some part in the Test series. But it looks extremely unlikely that he’ll be able to play here in ten days’ time.’
Ben Stokes on crutches
Should Stokes be deemed unfit to face Sri Lanka, England’s vice-captain, Ollie Pope, would likely take over the reins as skipper for the interim period.
Stokes’ injury is a significant blow for the England cricket team and puts their chances for the upcoming Test series with Sri Lanka in doubt.
England cricket team in a huddle
As a cricket fan, it’s always disappointing to see players get injured. But it’s part of the game, and we can only hope that Stokes’ injury isn’t as severe as it looks. In the meantime, we can focus on the performances of other players and have fun enjoying the rest of The Hundred.
