NEW DELHI:
England
's chances receive a potential lift as captain Ben Stokes may take to bowling in the upcoming fourth Test against India in Ranchi, according to vice-captain
Ollie Pope
on Wednesday.
The English team, trailing 1-2 in the series, is eager for a win after consecutive losses.
Initially committed to playing as a batsman due to a persisting knee issue, the 32-year-old all-rounder Stokes surprised by participating in bowling sessions during practice on Wednesday.
His struggles with the left knee have kept him from bowling in the last three Ashes Tests in 2023 and the ODI World Cup.
"There's definitely a chance," vice-captain Pope said of the probability that Stokes will bowl in the fourth Test.
"He's not confirmed it even in the changing room so we will see. He bowled at the batters today," he added.
"See how he pulls up, and if that's good, hopefully we will see him with the ball in hand in the game."
Stokes, who underwent knee surgery in November, has been diligently working on his recovery to regain full fitness. Despite initial plans to focus solely on batting during the series against India, Stokes has shown determination by participating in bowling sessions during practice.
"If he's got full confidence in his knee I guess you've got to trust the medical advice and trust his opinions as well," added Pope.
Stokes, the right-arm fast bowler, achieved a significant milestone by completing his 100th Test in England's recent 434-run loss to India. With a current tally of 197 wickets, he stands merely three wickets away from a remarkable achievement - becoming only the third player in the history of five-day cricket to secure both 6,000 runs and 200 wickets.
In the upcoming fourth Test in Ranchi, England are likely to make strategic decisions, including the potential rest of pace bowlers James Anderson and
Mark Wood
. This decision is influenced by the expected pitch conditions in Ranchi, which are anticipated to favor spinners.
Stokes' possible return to bowling in this context could provide a crucial balance to England's bowling attack in the quest for a much-needed win in the series.
(With AFP inputs)
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