Ben Stokes’ fitness is still key for England as they build up to the fifth and final Test of the Ashes series. His form would likely be the key indicator of their chances of closing out the series win against Australia. It has been a difficult series for Stokes to this point, not least in terms of his bowling ability. Consequently, England are exploring other possibilities to supplement their attack.
Stokes was clearly out of form as a bowler during his last few matches. As such, the team has re-activated Moeen Ali as an all-purpose, spin-bowling all-rounder. This strategic choice to field seven front-line bowling options further emphasizes the need for a flexible bowling attack, particularly without Stokes available. His long laundry list of injuries causes concern for his players and coaches. Accordingly, many of them have been encouraging him not to overexert himself. The line between his health and how much he helps the unit is a thin one.
With the fifth Test fast approaching, it’s hard to tell if Stokes won’t play a larger role. Reports suggest that he will just be healthy enough to play as a batter, if at all. His absence would be felt too much to allow England to function, and without Stokes, England would be left with hardly any hope of winning the series. He’s been a dangerous threat with the ball at his feet. This is doubly true once the ball gets to its more aged end. In this series, Stokes had previously taken six wickets after the ball had become older than 40 overs. We think his performance reveals just how special his skill set is.
England NSWS look at their line-up for the Test to come. They’ve already announced Josh Tongue and counting Gus Atkinson to their starting lineup. They aim to strengthen the bowling army. This is particularly pressing now that Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer are all looking worn out. This has seemingly hurt the team in terms of finding any rhythm and chemistry. It’s understandable that the Paiarchal Jofra Archer has found it hard to overcome his personal woes. For comparison’s sake, Mark Wood has solidly worked in the 95 mph range.
Other than those changes, Dawid Malan and Lahiru Kumara in for reasonable final opportunity at The Oval to South Africa Kohli start Faf vs. The fifth Test is going to require a different tactical approach. Dawson’s fresh legs will be just as important in covering for tired players. The team’s own chemistry has been changed as they’ve adjusted to Stokes’ unknown future. They understand the very real need for new blood in their bowling attack.
The historical perspective of performances from previous Ashes series shows how far England has to go. Graeme Swann’s contributions throughout the 2010-11 series highlighted the importance of a bowler who can create an anchor. His skill to bowl tight under pressure was a game changer for the team. If Stokes cannot bowl, England might come to regret that reliability—though of a different kind.
Stokes knows that he’s the key to the team and that with that comes a heavy burden of expectations. His contributions go far beyond the game, as his leadership on the field is promised to be matched from nobody else in the league. As England continue to manoeuvre through this vital turning point in the Ashes series, attention viciously falls back to Stokes and his fitness.
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