After playing a limited role with the ball during the Ashes series, Ben Stokes has explained how important it is for him to play as an all-rounder.
England The captain’s left knee has been a problem for years but it has gradually worsened to such an extent that he could not even walk comfortably during the Test match in Wellington.
Ben Stokes He has bowled only 29 overs in this Ashes series but has not bowled a single ball since the second Test at Lord’s where he bowled a spell of 12 overs. But he admitted that if he had stopped earlier, he might not have been able to do it again.
‘Yes, it’s important to be an all-rounder,’ Stokes said after restoring the team’s balance in the absence of England’s bowling.
‘It’s something I’ve done since I was a kid. The desire to be involved in sports is something that has helped to get the best out of yourself.
“I said after the match in Wellington that it has been disappointing in the last few years that I haven’t been able to make the impact and play the same role that I have played in the last 10 years,” he said.
‘So obviously that’s something I want to do and hopefully get it sorted out. I forget I’m getting older every day.’
After the Ashes series, there is a break in Stokes’ schedule until the tour of India in the New Year and that could provide a real opportunity to try to sort out his left knee problem.
England have made no changes for The Oval since the Old Trafford Test, but there has been some criticism of James Anderson’s inclusion.
Anderson has defied all odds to still play cricket at the age of 41 on Sunday, but his performance in the series has been below his usual standard.
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The fast bowler has taken four wickets at 76.47 but Stokes has no doubts about his place in the team.
He said, ‘Almost 700 Test wickets is extraordinary and it is also remarkable to do so worldwide. Everyone has an opinion on such things and my opinion is that James Anderson is the greatest fast bowler to ever play the game.’
‘I mean he’s not bowling badly, he hasn’t got the reward he deserves,’ added the England captain. He is still showing an incredible economy rate in this series, unfortunately he is not getting the wickets to show for it.’
‘We know what Jimmy does, he connects an end, even if it’s not his priority, he just works very tirelessly with his line and length. I think he is unlucky.
He said, ‘The number of times he has gone through the bat, either someone has given an edge at fourth slip or there is an edge below it.
‘I feel disappointed for him and he gets frustrated when he doesn’t make that impact. But he’s still bowling like Jimmy Anderson, he just hasn’t got the rewards he usually gets.’
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#forget #Ben #Stokes
**Interview with Ben Stokes on His Knee Surgery and Future Plans**
**Editor:** Welcome, Ben! It’s great to have you here, especially after your recent surgery. First off, how are you feeling post-operation?
**Ben Stokes:** Thanks for having me! I’m feeling optimistic. The surgery on my left knee went well, and I’m focused on my rehabilitation to get back to full fitness.
**Editor:** You’ve had knee issues for a while now. Can you tell us about how it affected your performance during the Ashes series?
**Ben Stokes:** It has been quite challenging. I couldn’t bowl as much as I would have liked, only managing 29 overs throughout the series. My mobility was restricted, and I wasn’t able to contribute in the way I traditionally do. It was very frustrating.
**Editor:** You’ve mentioned how important being an all-rounder is to you. Can you elaborate on that?
**Ben Stokes:** Absolutely. Playing as an all-rounder is something I’ve cherished since I started my cricket journey. Being able to contribute with both bat and ball is an integral part of my game. If I hadn’t pushed through the discomfort, I wouldn’t be in a position to return to that role—so I’m determined to sort out my knee issues.
**Editor:** With the upcoming Test series in India in January, how do you plan to prepare during your rehabilitation?
**Ben Stokes:** I’ve got a dedicated recovery plan, and this break until the India series gives me time to focus on my rehab. I want to ensure my knee is in the best possible condition so I can perform at my best.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what are your goals for the new year, especially regarding the Test series in India?
**Ben Stokes:** My main goal is to return as an all-rounder, contributing significantly to the team’s success. I want to make an impact like I have in the past and help lead the team to victories.
**Editor:** Before we wrap up, do you have a message for your fans?
**Ben Stokes:** I just want to thank everyone for their support. It’s been a tough time, but I’m committed to coming back stronger. Your encouragement means the world to me!
**Editor:** Thank you, Ben. Best of luck with your recovery and the upcoming series!
**Ben Stokes:** Thank you!
