ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Ben Stokes ruled out of ENG vs BAN clash, confirms Jos Buttler

All-rounder Ben Stokes missed England's opening game against New Zealand as well.

England had a forgettable start to their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign as they suffered a crushing defeat against New Zealand at Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. England will be playing their second encounter in the mega event against Bangladesh at HPCA stadium in Dharamshala. England will be missing the services of their star all-rounder Ben Stokes in the second successive game. 

Ben Stokes got a niggle on his hip that made him sit out of the action against New Zealand. England struggled against the Kiwis as they suffered a massive defeat by 9 wickets in their opening game. Devon Conway (152*) and Rachin Ravindra (123*) tore apart the English bowling lineup last Wednesday. English skipper Jos Buttler informed the media in the pre-match press conference that Ben Stokes is recovering well but he is unlikely to play in the next game against Bangladesh. 

Buttler confirms Stokes' absence

English captain Jos Buttler said, “It’s good to see him back in the nets and building back towards full fitness, but he’s probably unlikely for tomorrow.” Ben Stokes has started practicing in the nets in all likelihood he will be making his comeback into the world stage against Afghanistan on Sunday in Delhi. Ben Stokes is England’s key player in the middle order and will play a crucial role in their title defence campaign. 

Earlier English skipper Jos Buttler informed the BBC that Stokes is improving day by day. But now when he is back in the nets, this would have given the English camp a more breather. In Stokes’ absence, England went in with Harry Brook in the playing XI. Brook didn’t do much and got out after playing a short cameo of 25 in 15 balls in the middle overs. Brook will again get an opportunity against Bangladesh spinners. 

England's batting order had a tough day in Ahmedabad but in Dharmashala they will get conditions a bit like home. England will be looking to include one extra seamer against Bangladesh at the expense of a spinner. Stokes’ injury has opened up a lot of trouble for England and their perfectly balanced combination for the World Cup 2023. Bangladesh will not be an easy opposition for England in Indian conditions.