England Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of cricket for three months following a significant hamstring injury sustained during the third day of the final Test against New Zealand in Hamilton. This marks the second hamstring tear in his left leg this year, with the first occurring in August during The Hundred. Stokes is set to undergo surgery in January to address the issue.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the injury in a statement, revealing that the 33-year-old all-rounder will need an extended recovery period. “Ben Stokes has been ruled out of cricket for at least three months. Tests have confirmed a tear in his left hamstring, and surgery will take place in January,” the statement read.
Stokes, known for his resilience, addressed the setback on social media platform X, vowing to return stronger. “One hurdle crossed… so let’s get started!!! I still have a lot to give, more blood, sweat, and tears to shed for my team and this jersey,” he wrote, referencing the phoenix tattoo symbolizing his determination to rise again.
While Stokes’ absence won’t affect England’s Test team until May, he has been excluded from the India tour, Champions Trophy, and SA20 franchise MI Cape Town’s roster. The setback tests Stokes’ mettle but underlines his unyielding spirit.
