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Ben Stokes Misses ENG vs. NZ 2023 World Cup Opener
- Updated: October 5, 2023
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Ben Stokes Misses ENG vs. NZ 2023 World Cup Opener
Why Ben Stokes Is Missing Today’s ENG vs. NZ Match in the 2023 World Cup
England all-rounder Ben Stokes is notably absent from the opening match of the 2023 World Cup against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Stokes’ absence is due to a hip niggle, which has sidelined him for this crucial encounter.
Stokes, who recently reversed his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), made a comeback to the England 50-over side ahead of the World Cup. His return was highly anticipated, especially after he showcased impressive form during the series against New Zealand at home, where he registered the highest individual ODI score for England, an impressive 182.
The 2019 World Cup winner was a vital addition to the English middle-order, known for its flamboyant stroke-players. However, an unfortunate hip niggle has forced him to sit out England’s first match in the tournament.
In the absence of regular New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, stand-in captain Tom Latham won the toss and opted to bowl first. England’s captain, Jos Buttler, also expressed his preference to bowl first, taking the opportunity to provide an update on Stokes:
“We would have bowled first as well. We had a good series against New Zealand. Everyone seems in a really good place. We are very proud of our achievement four years ago but this is new, we are not defending anything. Stokes is still recovering from his hip niggle so Atkinson, Willey, Topley, and Stokes miss out.”
As the teams take the field for this highly anticipated clash, England’s playing XI includes Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (captain & wicketkeeper), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, and Adil Rashid. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s playing XI comprises Devon Conway, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (captain & wicketkeeper), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Trent Boult.
Despite Stokes’ absence, cricket fans worldwide eagerly await the thrilling contest between these two cricketing giants, England and New Zealand, in the 2023 World Cup opener. With both teams fielding strong line-ups, this match promises to be an exciting start to what is expected to be an unforgettable tournament.
As Ben Stokes focuses on recovering from his hip niggle, England will look to make a strong statement in their pursuit of World Cup glory, while New Zealand aims to get off to a winning start under stand-in captain Tom Latham’s leadership.
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By- Sahiba Suri
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