Revealed: Why Ben Stokes isn't included in England's playing XI vs New Zealand in 1st match of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

Ben Stokes is not included in England's playing XI for their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 opener against NZ.

The biggest cricketing prize is now up for grabs as the 10 teams go against each other in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. The World Cup’s curtain raiser has begun at Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Defending champions England have started their title campaign against last edition’s runners-up New Zealand. Jos Buttler-led side will be batting first in the curtain raiser as New Zealand's stand-in skipper Tom Latham has won the toss and elected to bowl. 

England will be playing without their all-rounder - who will play as a pure batsman in the tournament - Ben Stokes in their opening game. Stokes came out of retirement to take part in the World Cup tournament for his national side one more time. Stokes will be missing the opening game as he has got a niggle just before the game and England will be fielding Harry Brook replacing the star all-rounder. Harry Brook will be playing his first-ever World Cup game. 

Jos Buttler provides update on Ben Stokes

England captain Job Buttler informed at the toss, “Ben’s missing the game. He has got a niggle with his hip. Guys missing out are Atkinson, Topley, Willey, and Stokes.” Stokes didn’t had a bat or bowl even in England’s two warm-up matches played against India (Washed out due to rain) and Bangladesh at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Stokes will be resting for a few days before he makes his comeback in the next England game against Bangladesh at Dharamshala. 

All-rounder Ben Stokes was England’s hero in the 2019 World Cup final against New Zealand. His presence is really important for the English side throughout their title defence campaign. Talking about the World Cup campaign, Buttler said, “Preparations have been ok, Haad a good series against NZ at home. Very proud of the achievement four years ago.” England defeated New Zealand to win the championship for the first time. 

New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and elected to bowl first in Ahmedabad, New Zealand are also dealing with injuries as Lockie Ferguson is out of the playing XI due to niggle. Kane Williamson is also ruled out of the first few games due to his ACL injury. Williamson had a good time in the Warm-up and soon he will be joining in the Blackcaps' campaign in the World Cup 2023. Southee is also not part of the playing NZ XI.