New Delhi: England captain Ben Stokes is set to return for the third Test against New Zealand in Nottingham after missing the second match, which ended in England’s crushing 253-run defeat at The Oval. Head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed that Stokes would resume captaincy despite an ongoing investigation into breaches of team rules earlier this month.Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson had been left out of the second Test after violating the curfew following England’s victory in the opening match. During his retirement from the national side, Stokes went to Durham and impressed with a quick 95 against Northamptonshire. Both he and Atkinson were later eliminated from their regional playoffs, prompting a comeback.Confirming the captain’s return, McCullum said: “Ben will be back. He will be back and be the captain.”“I think everyone is excited about that, especially after seeing him hit Durham.”“I’ve been talking to Ben every day since we did the event and my assessment was that I was worried about him. To see him go out and play cricket and he looks like he’s enjoying the positives.“I’m not revealing our discussions because it’s private but it’s good to see him playing again and I’m looking forward to seeing him in a few days.”
Relationship questions are resolved
Recent reports claim that a rift broke out between McCullum and Stokes following England’s Ashes defeat and the disciplinary issue. However, the teacher insisted that their relationship was strong.“We have been working together for four years, we have done very good things and we have disappointed ourselves in some things.“We have strong discussions throughout and that’s to be expected when you’re in a leadership role. There’s a mutual respect there.”McCullum also stressed that mistakes cannot be ignored, saying: “It’s really important to separate the actions from the man… You talk and try to move.”Stokes’ return could give England a temporary boost as they look to get back into the series.
