Feud if you think it s over

STOKES – AND HIS DAD – PREPARE TO RESUME HOSTILITIES WITH SAMUELS

BEN STOKES has been told to give as good as he gets as he goes head-to-head again with Marlon Samuels.

Over the last three years there have been plenty of words, a memorable salute and even Stokes’ dad Ged weighing in after a Samuels’ interview.

Both are star performers for their sides and both clearly thrive on getting stuck in, but it could come at a cost.

Stokes is currently just one demerit point away from a ban after clashing with players from Bangladesh, India and South Africa.

And if he confronts Samuels, there is every chance things will spill over again with the West Indian saying: “He should stay on the boundary when I’m batting – as far away as possible.

“I saw him during the IPL this year and he didn’t say anything. I hope he can continue on that path. If not, I have things in place.”

The comments prompted Ged Stokes to tweet: “That’s because you weren’t out there long enough.”

With the West Indies needing to win the series 5-0 to guarantee World Cup qualification for 2019 there are bound to be flashpoints, but England skipper Eoin Morgan is confident Stokes can handle them.

“I’ve no worries at all,” said Morgan. “Absolutely none. I want Ben to be himself. I want Ben to get into the contest of a game. “It’s part and parcel of his character and getting the best out of him. “The more he’s played, the more he’s matured as a cricketer.” What Morgan should be worried about is England’s inability to adapt when conditions are not in their favour such as the Champions Trophy semifinal defeat by Pakistan, which is one reason why they are sticking with Jonny Bairstow as opener in place of Jason Roy.

Bairstow has waited patiently for a real chance in the one-day side and will bring a technique that should be able to cope.

“Jonny is a fantastic player and it’s an opportunity for him to make it his own,” Morgan added. “Every time we have exposed Jonny to different roles, he’s always stepped up.”