Stokes to return for first ODI against NZ
Ben Stokes is set to return to international cricket on Sunday when England play their first one-day international against New Zealand in Hamilton.The star all-rounder, who had been sidelined since his arrest following a nightclub incident last September, rejoined the England squad in New Zealand last week after pleading not guilty in the Bristol magistrates court to a charge of affray.
Although England have not yet named their side for the first ODI, and Stokes is short of match practice, captain Eoin Morgan suggested Saturday he would be in the line-up. “He looks in great nick, he’s hit the ground running since he’s been involved and he’s been himself, which is great to see,” Morgan said.
“He might be better for the more games he does play and feel more comfortable coming back ... it is his first game in quite a long time.”
Stokes has had long net sessions since his arrival and was said to be middling the ball well with the bat and bowling at maximum effort. Along with Stokes, Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes and Jonny Bairstow are also back in the squad after missing the recent tri-nations Twenty20 series in which Australia beat New Zealand in the final.
New Zealand have won just one of their last seven Twenty20 matches and only edged England out of the final on the strength of a superior run rate, and will be looking to turn their fortunes with the change of format.
“It’s a different group this oneday squad. We’ve played some good one-day cricket,” said coach Mike Hesson with the home side having enjoyed a good run recently, with a 3-0 ODI series win against West
Indies and beating
Pakistan 5-0.
WELLINGTON: