Ben Stokes dumped, James Anderson retains vice captaincy of England side

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has made a triumphant return to international cricket, playing some match-winning innings against New Zealand in the recently concluded limited overs series. But his cricketing antics were not enough to retain the vice-captain’s armband.

Fast bowler James Anderson will carry on with the duty of being the deputy in the Test series against the Kiwis. Anderson was the vice-captain in the Ashes series, and it is very likely that he will be the deputy in-charge until Stokes’ court case comes to an end.

Stokes will miss the Lord’s Test match against India as his trial will take place on August 6. It is likely to last between five to seven days. Three Lions’ coach Trevor Bayliss has recently praised Anderson for carrying on with the job in the best manner.

It doesn’t change my role: Anderson

35-year-old Anderson sounded delighted but added that the role doesn’t change for him.

“I’m delighted Joe has asked me to do it again for this series,” Anderson told the BBC. “It doesn’t change my role in the team a huge amount. I see myself as a senior player and I’m there for people if they need advice. Certainly, if Joe needs help on the field, I’m there for him.”

“It’s a big group effort when we go on the field, so it’s important that we get that right,” he said. “Again in the dressing-room, it’s trying to get people relaxed and ready to play Test cricket.” he added.