Ben Stokes is not a part of the ongoing five-match Test series against India nor will he participate in the second leg of IPL 2021, starting September 19. West Indies fast bowler Oshane Thomas has been called in place of Stokes in Rajasthan Royals.
Mental Health-
Star all-rounder Ben Stokes may be ruled out of the event due to several issues. While he is on a break from sports to focus on his mental health. He wants to give his surgically corrected left index finger enough time to recover.
According to a report in Daily Mail, it is not clear whether he will travel to Dubai with the English side next month. However, sources close to Stokes have confirmed that he does not want to take part in cricket.
Announce Their 15-Man Squad-
The International Cricket Council’s team selection deadline for WT20 is September 10. While England is expected to meet later this week to announce their 15-man squad with three standby players. England could possibly announce the squad by 9 September. As it is prudent to wait till the last minute to get clarity on Stokes’ condition.
The report said that the team can make changes by October 10. Seven days before the tournament. Hence, England head coach Chris Silverwood is expected to name Stokes in the initial 18-man squad for the event. However, it is unlikely that the England and Wales Cricket Board will put any undue pressure on Stokes to make a comeback, promising that he needs to be fit at all times.
