Stokes at full tilt on Kiwi return

WHILE England sorely missed Ben Stokes in the first three Ashes Tests, those at Canterbury in New Zealand have certainly enjoyed his talent.

Stokes, who had to remain at home while England set off on their tour of Australia as he waited to discover whether he would be charged following a latenight fracas in Bristol in September, has been starring for Canterbury since joining the club earlier this month.

Many questioned whether it was the right thing for the all-rounder to do but, having been named in England’s one-day squad for the series following the Ashes, 26-yearold Stokes struck form with a match-winning 93 during a T20 last week.

Canterbury coach Gary Stead said: “He’s brought that knowledge and experience of being in important matches and just been a bit of a calming influence out in the middle.

“You can tell he loves being in a battle on the field ... that competitive approach will hopefully rub off on some of our players.

“He doesn’t over-speak or anything but when he talks, people listen. He’s not shy of chiming in when we’re discussing tactics ... he’s got a very good cricket brain.

“He’s started to develop some friendships with some of our guys as well. It’s been really positive.”

There is still plenty of uncertainty as to when Stokes, if ever, will return to England duty, but Canterbury want to make the most of his talent while there.

Stead added: “We still don’t know a date when he will leave. I’m sure he was looking at it (the Ashes). I know he’ll be disappointed for England.

“He’s had five matches for us now ... it looks like he’s getting better and better. Batting, bowling, fielding – and even at training– he’s going full tilt. He’s not holding back at all.” Any club in world cricket would benefit from having somebody with the talents of Stokes around the place. It’s beneficial for England too that he’s keeping his eye in. Though it would have been much more beneficial had he decided to have an early night that evening in September!