ICC World Cup 2023: Michael Atherton Speaks On Ben Stokes' ODI Comeback, Says "The Temptation Was Just Too Strong"

Former England skipper Michael Atherton opened up on Ben Stokes’ comeback to the ODIs after taking a U-turn on his retirement. Atherton said that the fans will be happy to see him play for the England Cricket Team in India for the upcoming World Cup.

While talking to Sky Sports, Atherton said that Ben Stokes’ return is good news for England and the fans will be excited to see him back from his retirement.

Atherton said that he announced his retirement from ODI cricket in July 2022 due to a knee injury and was focusing more on Test cricket.

“Great news for England and their fans who’ll be delighted to see such a great cricketer comeback. He retired last July citing an unsustainable schedule, issues with his knee, and wanting to focus on his role as Test captain. But the lure of the World Cup is just too strong,” the former England skipper said.

Atherton further added that he had to be included in the squad once he was available since he makes a squad stronger and the selectors can’t ignore him. The former skipper praised Ben Stokes and said that his temptation was too strong to return from retirement.

“And he missed the 2015 edition so a great cricketer like him comes to the end of his career and thinks I’ve only played in one World cup, the temptation was just too strong. Once he made himself available, the selectors had to pick him as he makes any team better,” Atherton added.

Probably his last chance in a 50-over World Cup: Michael Atherton on Ben Stokes

Atherton said that Ben Stokes played a major role in the 2019 ODI World Cup to help his side win the prestigious trophy. The former skipper also added that this is probably Stokes’ last chance to shine in 50-over cricket.

“He played such a central role in England winning that World Cup four years ago. The chance to defend it, probably his last chance in a 50-over World Cup considering they come around once in four years,” Michael Atherton further added.

England will play the first match of the upcoming ODI World Cup against New Zealand on October 5th at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.