Ben Stokes unlikely to bowl in the second Test against New Zealand

Ben Stokes has made an outstanding start as the captain of England’s Test team. England played the first Test under his leadership against New Zealand and registered a 5-wicket win. Ben Stokes would be looking to continue the winning momentum and win the second Test as well.

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However, ahead of the second game, Ben Stokes might not bowl as he looked in complete discomfort during the training session of the team on Wednesday. Stokes bowled only 6 to 8 balls before opting to pull out. He also had a long conversation with the team doctor regarding the same.

However, Ben Stokes batted in the nets for a long period of time, which means that he will be available for the second Test match. In the last game, Stokes scored a half-century and picked one wicket.

For the unversed, England Cricket Team have announced the playing XI for the second Test match. England have gone with the same playing XI, except Jack Leach coming in at the expense of Matt Parkinson.

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On the other hand, New Zealand are yet to announce their playing XI for the series-deciding Test match. Colin de Grandhomme has been ruled out of the series due to a heel injury, which he picked up in the first Test. Henry Nicholls, who has recovered fully, is likely to replace him in the playing XI.

The biggest worry for New Zealand right now is Kane Williamson’s poor form with the bat. He had a disastrous season in the Indian T20 League 2022. In the recently concluded 1^st Test against England, he scored 2 and 15 runs. The team would be hoping that he makes a strong comeback.

England Playing XI for Second Test: Zak Crawley, Alex Lees, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (c), Ben Foakes (wk), Matthew Potts, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad, James Anderson