Ben Stokes resumes practice, Ashes return on the cards ?

England cricketer Ben Stokes has returned to practice following his break from the game. Stokes had taken a lengthy break from cricket to focus on mental health as well as to heal his fractured finger. The all-rounder posted a video on Instagram, where he can be seen hitting few balls in a net session. Stokes also mentioned in the post that he feels great to be hitting the cricket ball.

Ben Stokes will not be a part of the England squad that will play the 2021 edition of the International T20 Cup set to get underway from October 17. However, Stokes’ return to practice will give hope to the England side that he might make himself available for the high-profile Ashes series later this year.

However, MO Babat, the Performance Director of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated that England have no expectations from Stokes, adding that it is important for both England as well as Stokes to move at the right pace. Babat stated that the ECB will continue to support Stokes at this juncture.

“It’s hugely positive and hugely exciting. Certainly it looks like the extra medical stuff that has happened and the removal of scar tissue and everything else he had done has freed up his finger and it’s given him that feeling of confidence again back into his fingers.

Ultimately given what he’s experienced and where he’s been, it’s important that he and we move at the right pace for him. There’s certainly no pressure or expectation from us. It’s a case of us supporting Ben physically and however else we need to support but support him so that he can continue to progress at the rate that he would like to and he feels comfortable,” said Babat.

Ben Stokes last played an international match for England on 13th July 2021 at Edgbaston against the Pakistan.