ENGLAND FEAR OVER STOKES
ENGLAND are on red alert over Ben Stokes, who’s left knee is being scanned to discover the damage he suffered in the first one-dayer against South Africa.
And there are fears Eoin Morgan’s side will have to cope without the star all-rounder over the bank holiday weekend, if not longer, as a result.
Ahead of the second ODI at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton tomorrow, it is no exaggeration to suggest Stokes, 25, is the most important player in the side at present with his ability to win games in every department.
Stokes brings inspiration and balance to England’s side and Moeen Ali is certainly a beneficiary at number seven and with the ball in his hand.
After scoring 77 not out and picking up two wickets in a man-ofthe-match display at Headingley, Ali said: “Stokesy balances the side so if he is not fit, or for whatever reason he’s not playing, and I get told that I’m not playing, then so be it.
“You just get on with it.”