Ben Stokes’ Injury Woes: A Blow to England’s Test Series Hopes
England cricket fans were dealt a devastating blow as captain Ben Stokes suffered a hamstring injury during the Northern Superchargers’ win over Manchester Originals in The Hundred. The 33-year-old all-rounder was forced to retire hurt after scoring just two runs, and his participation in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka is now in serious doubt.
A Hamstring Problem
Stokes, who was opening the batting for the away side, pulled up while sprinting for a quick single and was clearly in some discomfort at Old Trafford. After the contest, Stokes was pictured using crutches, and the Superchargers confirmed that the Durham all-rounder was being assessed for a hamstring problem.
Ben Stokes injured during The Hundred match
A Long Road to Recovery
Stokes underwent surgery on a long-term left knee injury in late 2023 and had just started bowling again for England. His latest setback is a significant blow to England’s Test series hopes, and it remains to be seen how long he will be out of action.
Expert Analysis
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. ‘The way that he gripped the back of his leg looked like hamstring to me, which may well be a significant period out,’ Atherton said.
Ben Stokes on crutches after The Hundred match
A Blow to England’s Hopes
Stokes’ injury is a significant blow to England’s Test series hopes, and it remains to be seen how the team will cope without their talismanic captain. The injury has sparked concerns about Stokes’ long-term fitness, and England fans will be eagerly awaiting news on his recovery.
The Road Ahead
England’s Test series against Sri Lanka is set to start on August 21, and it remains to be seen how the team will fare without their captain. One thing is certain, however - Stokes’ injury is a significant blow to England’s hopes, and the team will need to find a way to bounce back from this setback.
