India vs England 2024

‘Bhai ye toh halla boldega ab’ – Fans react as Ben Stokes might get fit in time for first Test against India in Hyderabad

England will already be without the services of Harry Brook since he will miss the India tour due to personal reasons.

by
January 23, 2024

The five-match Test series between England and India has been set to start on January 25. The first Test match between the two teams will take place at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Prior to the first Test, England has not yet decided whether to call up captain Ben Stokes.

In November 2023, the 32-year-old had knee surgery to address a persistent issue. In addition, he hasn’t bowled after July 2023 which was during the Ashes. His ability to play in the first Test appeared to be in jeopardy due to the operation. But head coach Brendon McCullum spoke out to provide further context.

He declared that Stokes should be fit for the first test, stating that he appeared to be a greyhound. On the other hand, the side wishes to request his involvement as soon as feasible. Furthermore, the former captain of New Zealand disclosed that the squad is in no rush to decide whether or not the English captain is ready for the Hyderabad Test, and they are free to wait as long as they want to make that choice.

The New Zealand International said, “He looks like a greyhound. He’s put the work in, everyone knows his work ethic is phenomenal. I’ve seen him running around and I think he’s good to go. We’ll obviously make that call as late as what we need to. But he’s put all the work in, and we’ll just have to wait and see.”

“We just want him to be with his family: Brendon McCullum on Harry Brook

Furthermore, after the top batter withdrew from the India series for personal reasons, Brendon McCullum also mentioned Harry Brook. Family comes first, according to the England coach, and the whole team is fully aware of this.

Brendon McCullum added, “We wish him all the best and hopefully the next little period for Brooky (Brook) is as comfortable as it possibly can be. There’s a chance he may return later in the tour, but for now we just want him to be with his family and do his thing.”

Fans react as Ben Stokes might get fit in time for first Test against India in Hyderabad: –

Brendon McCullum confirms Ben Stokes is ready to go for the 1st Test against India. pic.twitter.com/6N7xi9Dlf3
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 23, 2024