Having missed his side's third ODI against Windies - which was anyway called off due to rain - owing to an ankle injury, all-rounder Ben Stokes is expected to be available for the final two games of the five-match series, says England head- Coach Trevor Bayliss.
Randy Brooks / AFP
Stokes injured his ankle during a practice session in Grenada on Sunday, which led to him missing the third ODI with Alex Hales being called in as a replacement. His absence was touted as only a precautionary measure, with the 27-year-old taking part In the warm-up session on Monday ahead of the game but was finally rested in order to avoid any complications.
As things stand now, head coach Trevor Bayliss highlighted Stokes' importance to the squad and mentioned that 'he'd be surprised if Stokes is not ready for the game.'
"He should be fine in two days' time," Bayliss was quoted by ESPNCricinfo. "It's one of things things, he could have batted and fielded today. He said he could feel his ankle a little bit warming up to bowl. We took a conservative approach today and decided not to chance making it worse. I'd be surprised if he's not right for Wednesday.
"He is important to the squad, as we've shown in the past, we've gone into one-day tournaments with only five bowlers. We did in Australia 12 months ago and were able to win. It's not perfect for us but With the players we've got in the team and the squad we're more than capable of winning without him. Players We've got in the team and the squad We're More than capable of winning without him.
"He was probably not as confident as I've seen him before when we asked him was he right to play. So straight away it was an easy decision and a learning process for him about how he can look after his body a little better. "
Ben Stokes has been an integral part of England squad in this Caribbean tour, having bowled most overs and leading the batting average for his side. His availability now is expected to boost England's changes in a series which is currently held at 1-1.
