Unwell Stokes is a doubt for Test at Leeds
ENGLAND captain Ben Stokes missed training yesterday - 48 hours out from the start of the Headingley Test.
Stokes was conspicuous by his absence as the rest of the squad began preparations for the final match of the LV= Insurance Series against New Zealand, having reported feeling unwell.
An England and Wales Cricket Board spokesperson said the Durham all-rounder had tested negative for Covid-19 and was being kept away from the group as a precautionary measure.
New Zealand have had several positive cases in their squad over the last two weeks, including Stokes’ opposite number Kane Williamson.
The tourists have also seen Henry Nicholls, Devon Conway, Michael Bracewell and two members of their backroom team return positive results since arriving in England, though all four players are available this week.
Should Stokes’ condition prove more problematic than expected, England would need to accelerate their decision over who would stand in for him.
The 31-year-old has not named a vice-captain since taking over the role earlier this summer.
His immediate predecessor Joe Root would be the obvious choice but having opened up on the mental toll the job had taken on him prior to stepping away he may be happier in the ranks.
That would leave senior figures like Stuart Broad, James Anderson and Jonny Bairstow to step in.
At least one of Broad and Anderson could be rested this week, given the lack of preparation time before England’s next Test - last year’s rearranged series finale against India.
Waiting in the wings are Craig Overton and uncapped twin brother Jamie, who has been added to the squad as an extra fast- bowling option.