Ben Stokes makes an uneventful comeback into the England side

Updated - 10 Jan 2019, 12:36 AM

Ben Stokes, Trevor Bayliss, England, New Zealand, ECB
Ben Stokes needs to wait to get into the first XI says Trevor Bayliss. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

The much-awaited comeback of England’s premier all-rounder, Ben Stokes, finally took place at Seddon Park, Hamilton. Stokes is proclaimed to be one of the best allrounders in cricket presently but faced a 5-month long ouster from the team due to pending investigation for a brawl outside Bristol pub.

Stokes contributed only 12 runs with the bat and went for almost five and a half in his eight over. The Rajasthan Royal’s marquee catch did manage to pick up the prized scalp of Tom Latham which broke the record partnership between him and centurion Ross Taylor.

Durham all-rounder last played against West Indies back in September before engaging in a fist-fight with an army veteran along with accomplice Alex Hales. Both were suspended by the English cricket board infinitely, although Hales returned to action soon.

Ben Stokes, Trevor Bayliss, England, New Zealand, ECB
Ben Stokes needs to wait to get into the first XI says, Trevor Bayliss. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

He was suspended until prosecutors decided whether he would be charged over the incident and allowed to return to the England team after the decision was made to charge him with affray.

Also Read: It is Only a Matter of Time Before I Make My ODI Comeback: Suresh Raina

The England and Wales Cricket Board ruled that Stokes is entitled to the presumption of innocence until any court proceedings are completed.

Ben Stokes was out of action for England since September

The 25-year old would have been kicking himself having to miss out on Ashes series. The Englishmen missed the services of their dynamic all-rounder during their 4-nil drubbing at the hands of the Australians.

Kane Williamson, New Zealand, England, ODI series, Hamilton, Ben Stokes
Kane Williamson maintains Ben Stokes is not the only threat. Photo Credit: Getty Images.

Ben Stokes also missed out on the 5-match ODI series against Australia which they won by 4-1. Subsequently, the highest paid personnel during IPL auctions, missed out on the Trans-Tasman Tri-Nation T20I series hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

England’s dismal run of form continued as they lost the series opener at Hamilton against New Zealand by three wickets.

Also Read: Shikhar Dhawan Appointed Team India’s Vice-Captain For Nidahas Trophy 2018 

Tagged:

New Zealand national cricket team