Ben Stokes returns to England ODI squad, eyeing for World Cup 2023

England’s star all-rounder Ben Stokes has decided to step out of retirement from the One-Day International format. The 32-year-old came to this decision to be part of England's title defending campaign in the 50-over Cricket World Cup which is scheduled to take place in India in October-November.

Stokes called it a day in the ODI format last year after he was appointed as the captain of the England Test team. He stated that playing in three formats has become unsustainable for him with the hectic schedule.

Stokes Announced for New Zealand Series

England has announced his name in the ODI squad for the upcoming home series against New Zealand which is scheduled to begin on 8th September. The 4-match ODI series will take place after the T20I series. Although Stokes has not yet retired from the shortest format of the game, for this series he is selected in the ODI squad only.

World Cup Performance by Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes has been a top performer in both the 50-over and 20-over World Cup wins for England. They are the current champions of the most prestigious ICC trophy by winning their first ever title in 2019 at their home.

In the final match of the 2019 World Cup, Ben Stokes emerged as the Player of the Match for smashing 84 runs off 98 deliveries. He will still continue to lead the red-ball team but with no Tests scheduled till January 2024, Stokes can put in his match-winning efforts once again in the World Cup 2023.

Ben Stokes Recent Form

Ben Stokes has led the England Test team in the Ashes 2023 and successfully drawn the series 2-2 after lying behind 2-0 after the first two Tests. In the 5 Tests, Stokes smashed 405 runs and picked 33 wickets.

Ben Stokes ODI Stats

Stokes carries remarkable stats in all the formats. He is undoubtedly the top all-rounder in international cricket in the modern times. He has played 105 ODIs so far in which he has scored 2924 runs and picked 74 wickets.

What did the selectors say?

On Stokes’ inclusion back into the England ODI squad, England Men’s National Selector said, “The return of Ben Stokes only adds to that quality with his match-winning ability and leadership. I am certain that every fan will enjoy seeing him back in an England ODI shirt again.”