ENG Vs SA: The Absence Of Ben Stokes, Do England Miss Their Star All-Rounder? Mohammad Kaif Gives Answer

In a recent episode of the ‘AskStar’ segment by Star Sports, a curious cricket enthusiast posed a compelling question to former Indian cricketer and expert, Mohammad Kaif. The question revolved around the absence of the renowned all-rounder, Ben Stokes, during England’s match against Afghanistan in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, and whether his presence could have turned the tide in England’s favor.

Kaif’s response offered a thoughtful perspective on the matter. He acknowledged the significance of Ben Stokes’ experience and his ability to adapt to Indian conditions, having not only played international cricket but also featured prominently in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His experience in playing on Indian pitches and under varying conditions is undoubtedly a valuable asset that England missed in this particular game.

One key aspect Kaif highlighted was Ben Stokes’ left-handed batting, which could have introduced a new dynamic to England’s innings. In a game where adapting to the conditions and exploiting every possible advantage is crucial, the inclusion of a left-handed batsman could have disrupted Afghanistan’s bowling strategies and provided England with an edge.

The former cricketer emphasized that Afghanistan’s total of 284, while respectable, is considered moderate on pitches known for high-scoring contests. In a World Cup where scores of 400 have become increasingly common, having a player like Ben Stokes, who can provide quick runs and change the game’s dynamics, would have been beneficial.

England’s Lineup Is Not Lacking In Batting Prowess Without Ben Stokes

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“Yes maybe because he has the experience, he has played a lot of cricket in India and has also played IPL for many years, so that experience, and also he bats lefty, it would have made a difference and apart from that, you are not talking about 400, 284 is a very moderate total on flat pitches where 400 are being made. 11-12 centuries have been scored already, we have completed 13 matches so they had the batting.

“Ben Stokes, come on, I can understand the experience but apart from that, they also have players. You talk about Livingstone, you talk about Malan, you talk about Joe Root, and they have Sam Curran and Adil Rashid who bat till number 10. I don’t think you need more batting than that but yes they missed the experience of Ben Stokes but overall I don’t think there is any weakness in this team,” said Mohammad Kaif.

Mohammad Kaif’s final verdict was that, indeed, England missed Ben Stokes’ experience in the match against Afghanistan. His ability to navigate challenging conditions and provide a left-handed batting option could have made a difference. Nonetheless, England’s batting lineup, fortified by several talented individuals, was by no means lacking.

While England may have missed Ben Stokes during their game against Afghanistan, his experience and prowess remain vital for the team as they progress further in the tournament. Cricket enthusiasts will continue to speculate on the hypothetical impact of his presence, but in the end, cricket is a sport defined by its uncertainties, where every match unfolds a unique narrative.