Praise for Stokes in Kiwi run

SORELY missed by England in the Ashes, Ben Stokes’ competitive streak, leadership and cricket nous is proving a boon at his current team.

Stokes’ arrival at New Zealand domestic outfit Canterbury three weeks ago was met with feverish interest and plenty of condemnation.

Many questioned the merits of hastily signing the allrounder, who continues to sweat on a verdict from UK prosecutors regarding his role in a brawl that left a man with a fractured eye socket.

Canterbury coach Gary Stead, who remains unsure how much longer Stokes will be based in his country of birth, has been thoroughly impressed with the conduct and cricket skills of England’s vicecaptain but also the impact he’s had on young teammates.

“He’s brought that knowledge and experience of being in important matches and been a bit of a calming influence out in the middle,” Stead said.

“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.”