Stokes returns to Test squad

Stokes is recalled.

The ECB have announced the England squad for the opening Investec Test against India, due to start next Wednesday at Trent Bridge with Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes recalled as part of a 13-man squad.

The 23-year-old is the only addition to the 12 players who were involved in the Test squads against Sri Lanka which means Chris Woakes keeps his place after impressing for Warwickshire in County cricket over recent weeks.

Stokes has played four Tests in his fledging international career after debuting in Adelaide and was the one shining light from the tour of Australia where England suffered an Ashes whitewash despite the best efforts of their exciting youngster.

The expansive all action cricketer is tipped to re-enter the Test fold after recovering from a broken wrist he suffered after punching a locker in the tour of the West Indies earlier this year.

That proved his fiery nature which made him stand out for the right reasons in Australia. It was a huge disappointment and learning curve for Stokes after his frustrations in the Caribbean saw him miss the World T20 in Bangladesh but he is now back and ready to establish himself in the England set-up under Pater Moores.  

He was told he needed ‘more overs under his belt’ before he was considered for a return in the England whites and he has done just that by inspiring Durham to a 309 victory over Sussex with Stokes taking 10 wickets in the match. Those wickets came in over 30 overs whilst he also scored 77 runs in the match.

The Test series will be the first time since 1959 that India have played five Test matches on an England tour.

National selector, James Whitaker, said: “The selectors would like to congratulate all the players selected in the squad for the 1st Investec Test against India and in particular Ben Stokes who returns to the squad having worked hard to regain his fitness following an injury this winter.

“This series against India will no doubt be a tough one and the selectors would like to wish Peter Moores, Alastair Cook, the coaches and players all the best for a good performance next week at Trent Bridge.”

England squad:

Alastair Cook (Essex) (Capt)

Moeen Ali (Worcestershire)

James Anderson (Lancashire)

Gary Ballance (Yorkshire)

Ian Bell (Warwickshire)

Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire)

Chris Jordan (Sussex)

Liam Plunkett (Yorkshire)

Matt Prior (Sussex)

Sam Robson (Middlesex)

Joe Root (Yorkshire)

Ben Stokes (Durham)

Chris Woakes (Warwickshire)