England’s Test captain, Ben Stokes, dismissed concerns over an injury scare on day four of the first Test against New Zealand, stating that it was “more management than anything else.” The all-rounder experienced discomfort while bowling and was forced to abort a spell midway through his fifth over on Sunday at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval. However, Stokes reassured fans that the issue was not serious and he would be fit for the second Test in Wellington, starting on Friday.
Stokes had been leading England’s charge with the ball, opening the attack in the second innings. His side, trailing by just four runs, needed only four wickets to dismiss New Zealand, and Stokes seemed unfazed as he bowled his first four overs. However, he experienced stiffness in his lower back during his fifth over, prompting a precautionary break. After completing three deliveries, he stepped away and allowed fast bowler Gus Atkinson to take over for the remainder of the over.
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The move was seen as a prudent decision, with Stokes opting not to risk exacerbating the problem. He remained on the field through to lunch, continuing to contribute to his side’s effort. New Zealand were bowled out for 254, with Brydon Carse taking a remarkable 6 for 42, leaving England with a modest target of 104 to win. England completed the chase in just 12.4 overs to secure a comfortable victory.
In the post-match presentation, Stokes downplayed the injury, describing it as nothing more than a case of managing his body after a demanding week on the field. “I’ve not spent that much time out in the middle for a long time,” he said. “It’s been a pretty heavy week: a lot of time in the field, bowled 20 overs, and then spent some time out in the middle.” He confirmed that the injury had occurred while fielding, after diving for a ball, but he remained confident that he would be fit for the second Test in Wellington.
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“It’s more management than anything else,” Stokes explained. “With where we were in the game, it didn’t feel necessary to eke out any more balls than I needed to. I think the body is going to be good for this outing, and I’m raring to go for Wellington.”
Stokes’ fitness has been under scrutiny in recent months after a series of injury setbacks. Last November, he underwent knee surgery to address a long-standing issue. He also pulled out of this year’s T20 World Cup to focus on managing his return to bowling. Following his recovery, Stokes impressed with a five-wicket haul against the West Indies, taking his career tally to over 200 Test wickets. However, his participation in the Hundred was cut short by a hamstring tear, which sidelined him for four Tests.
Ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, Stokes expressed confidence that he was “good as gold” and “completely over” the hamstring injury. He also revealed that he had skipped the IPL mega-auction to focus on maintaining his body and extending his playing career.
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With the second Test against New Zealand set to begin on Friday, Stokes will be hoping to continue leading his team from the front, both with bat and ball, as England aim to build on their solid start to the series.
