The Ben Stokes-led England side has named veteran pacer Stuart Broad in their playing XI for the opening Test against New Zealand at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. Broad is expected to make his return to red-ball cricket.
Notably, the batsman missed the Pakistan tour due to the birth of his first child, Annabelle. He will now play his 160th Test match for the Three Lions.
Ben Stokes, captain of England, stated that, given the conditions at Mount Maunganui, they attempted to cover all bases, and Broad will be a crucial piece of their puzzle. He has the ability to spin the ball in all directions, and the series conditions will favour the pacer. The 36-year-old will join James Anderson and Ollie Robinson on the field as England prepares to dominate opposition away from their own turf.
Ben Stokes was quoted by ESPNcricinfo prior to the first Test as saying, “The way we’ve gone about our selections and stuff like that, especially in England and in similarish conditions here, the team we pick – especially with the ball – has all bases covered, especially in these types of conditions.”
Ben Stokes provides a status report on his bowling fitness
Meanwhile, England’s captain Stokes has stated he is fit to bowl in the opening Test. The 31-year-old did not participate in the warm-up match versus New Zealand XI, causing worries for his fitness. Stokes, though, denied the rumours and declared that he is fit and ready to play.
“We’ve had really terrific preparation and buildup for this game, and we’ve been able to train in the tent despite the weather.” “Stokes stated.
“Everything is perfect. Bowling is about choosing the ideal time to bowl. I’ve got the last two days free from bowling and will bowl tomorrow [Wednesday]. “I’m just making sure I’ve done what I need to before we begin,” said the all-rounder.
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