STOKES OUT OF ENGLAND SQUAD FOR WORLD CUP

BEN STOKES will be missing when England name their squad tomorrow for the Twenty20 World Cup — and he remains a doubt for the Ashes that follow this winter. England’s most important cricketer is set to continue his absence from the game while he concentrates on his mental health and the serious finger injury that ruled him out earlier this summer. Chris Silverwood will name a 15-man squad for England’s attempt to unite the two white-ball world titles — along with three reserves — but, as Sportsmail reported on Saturday, Stokes will not be among them. England can make changes at any time until October 10, the eve of the tournament in the United Arab Emirates, so Stokes is not entirely ruled out yet. But with England giving him as long as he needs to concentrate on his health, the odds are against a call-up. ‘I want to give Ben as much space as possible,’ said coach Silverwood. ‘I will not be putting pressure on him, will not be rushing him and whatever support he needs he will get.’ Silverwood

named a 16-man squad yesterday for Friday’s final Test at Old Trafford.

It included Jos Buttler after the birth of his second child — a daughter, Margot — and spinner Jack Leach, who is yet to appear this summer.

The rapid return of Buttler, who averaged a mere 14 against India in three Tests before his paternity leave, means England must decide whether to take the wicketkeeping gloves off Jonny Bairstow after one game.

Silverwood and captain Joe Root must also see if they can find room in their side for the left-arm spin of Leach on an Old Trafford pitch that is expected to turn. He could play alongside off-spinner Moeen Ali or even replace him. Paceman Mark Wood is expected to play.

⚫ THE ECB were relieved when all the PCR tests from the England and India players taken on the final day of the Oval Test came back negative, giving the green light for Friday’s game.