It’s great news. He’s England’s heartbeat

THIS is great news for Joe Root, the England team and all cricket supporters who want to see the best take on the best in Australia this winter. But, more importantly, it is great news for Ben Stokes. It means his finger is on the mend and it is also a really good sign that he is in a healthy place mentally because we know the last few months have been a battle for him. The hints have been there. The moment Ben posted a picture of himself holding a bat I thought: ‘OK, he’s not doing that because he’s thinking of Durham in April. He must have something else in mind’. As he said himself, he is ready for Australia. The only surprise is that Stokes will be there from the start. I thought he would join the team at some point but it is an unexpected bonus that he will be at the Gabba. Stokes is absolutely vital to the England team. His addition to the Ashes squad will give everyone a lift. It is not just his immense contribution with bat, ball and in the field but his sheer presence. He is the heartbeat of that side and suddenly England’s hopes of succeeding in the series have improved dramatically. Stokes is the ultimate team man and the England players will be thrilled to have him back. This is the hardest tour of them all and Root will be so much stronger for having his vice-captain alongside him. Big characters are needed in Australia more than anywhere. You need players who stand up to the Aussies, who can look them in the eye and not take a backward step in a hostile environment. When you have lost nine out of your last ten Tests in Australia, as England have, they need their biggest character on this tour more than ever. The hope now is that Stokes is refreshed and ready to go because the last few years of extreme ups and downs had clearly taken their toll on him. The whole of cricket will be the better for his return.