Will Ben Stokes Come Out Of Retirement and Play 2023 World Cup? ENG Coach Matthew Mott Answers
Stokes announced ODI retirement last year [Twitter]
Regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in modern-day cricket, Ben Stokes has been an absolute legend for England across formats. The swashbuckling southpaw played a massive role in helping the Three Lions clinch their first-ever ODI World Cup, playing an immortal knock in the all-important final against New Zealand in the previous edition. However, he shook the world last year by announcing his untimely retirement from 50-overs cricket despite being an invaluable asset for the English white-ball side.
As we are inching towards the 2023 World Cup, the debates surrounding Stokes' retirement have intensified. While England's passionate fans want him to represent the side in the marquee event, the English white-ball coach Matthew Mott has come out with a groundbreaking statement on the matter.
As quoted by Sportskeeda, Mott has revealed that the English leadership group, spearheaded by skipper Jos Buttler, will have a discussion with Stokes. However, they will let him take the final call regarding his participation in the World Cup.
'We will see if he's keen, we are still hopeful'- Matthew Mott on Stokes' ODI comeback
“Jos will probably lead the way on that communication, but Ben’s pretty straight with all of us. We will see if he’s keen. There has not been a clear direction on what he’s going to do yet, but we are still hopeful. I’ve always said his bowling would be a bonus, but just look at what he brings with the bat, even in the field," Mott stated.
“Watching him throughout the whole Ashes series, he had such a great presence. He’s done it for years when it comes to performing in one-day cricket and so he’s an invaluable commodity," he added.
Besides being an incredible asset with bat and ball, Stokes has been prolific as England's Test captain, helping his side reach new heights alongside Brendon McCullum.
The veteran cricketer grabbed a million eyeballs through his tactical masterstrokes, leading England to a drawn Ashes series after initially being 0-2 down against arch-rivals Australia.
England’s World Cup squad likely to be picked on Tuesday: Reports
Meanwhile, as per reports, England will likely pick their squad for the 2023 World Cup on Tuesday. So, it will be interesting to see if Stokes and Jofra Archer make it into the final fifteen and represent the defending champions in the showpiece event.
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