In a positive development, England’s dynamic all-rounder, Ben Stokes, has shared an optimistic update on his rehabilitation. The England Test captain has intensified efforts to recover from a knee operation before the upcoming Test tour of India.
Following the World Cup, Ben Stokes underwent knee surgery, with the operation taking place at the end of November.
While the race against time is challenging, Ben Stokes aims to regain fitness for a prominent role in the first Test against India, scheduled to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad.
Rob Key, confirming Stokes’s significance in the series, noted that he might be limited in his bowling contributions during the Indian tour. Stokes, who could only bowl in two out of England’s six Test matches during the summer, has been functioning primarily as a specialist batter since the second Ashes Test at Lord’s.
What’s the update of Ben Stokes?
Taking to Instagram, Ben Stokes provided a glimpse into his recovery journey, stating, “Two weeks post knee opp. First two weeks were just relentless icing to get the swelling down and very small amounts of exercises to keep my knee moving. Great to be able to start some work in the gym, hoping for good progression over the next two weeks.”
“Rehab been going really well,” he added.
The 32-year-old had been grappling with a chronic knee issue for the past 18 months, though the precise nature of the problem has not been officially disclosed.
Facing a formidable challenge in India, England has introduced three uncapped players, Shoaib Bashir, Tom Hartley, and Gus Atkinson, for the impending Test tour.
Under the joint leadership of Stokes and Brendon McCullum, England remains undefeated in Test series, with draws against New Zealand overseas and the Ashes at home, showcasing dominance against other opponents.
However, India is anticipated to pose a stern test for the formidable English side.
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