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3 Best Replacements for Ben Stokes in England Test Squad: England Test captain and legendary all-rounder Ben Stokes shocked the cricketing world on June 28 by announcing his retirement from international cricket. Stokes clarified that the upcoming third Test match against New Zealand (New Zealand tour of England) would be the final game of his historic career.
Throughout his career, Stokes has played numerous memorable innings that will be cherished for ages. In Test cricket, he has amassed 7,273 runs and claimed 252 wickets. His departure leaves a void in the England team that will not be easy for any captain or coach to fill.
However, England possesses young and talented players capable of shouldering this significant responsibility in the future. Let us take a look at the three players who are the strongest contenders to replace Ben Stokes:
3 players who can replace Ben Stokes in England Test squad
3. James Coles – A Rising Star
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Sussex's young all-rounder James Coles is being hailed as the 'next superstar' of English cricket. He proved his mettle by making his first-class debut at the age of just 16.
- Selectors' Confidence: He was recently included in the T20 squad against India, clearly indicating that selectors view him as a player for the future.
- First-Class Record: Coles has scored 3,441 runs and taken 74 wickets in first-class cricket. In the current county season alone, he has amassed 521 runs in 8 matches.
- Asset in Asian Conditions: Coles is a left-arm spin bowler. Consequently, he could prove highly effective for England with his spin bowling during tours of the subcontinent (Asia).
Also Read: India vs Ireland: 10 Unwanted Records Broken by Team India
2. Dan Lawrence – A Strong Middle-Order Player
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Surrey batsman Dan Lawrence appears to be the frontrunner in this race. He already possesses some international experience, which gives him an edge over other players.
- International Experience: Lawrence has played 14 Test matches so far, scoring 671 runs, including four half-centuries.
- Excellent Form: He is currently in sensational form in the County Championship Division 1. With 788 runs in 8 matches, he is the tournament's second-highest run-scorer. During this period, he has also smashed five magnificent centuries.
- Added Option: Lawrence not only bats in the middle order but can also bowl off-spin when required. He has 64 First-Class wickets to his name, providing the team with an excellent sixth bowling option.
1. Sam Curran – The Most Experienced and Perfect Option
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If the England cricket team is looking for an experienced, match-winning all-rounder akin to Ben Stokes, there is no better option than Sam Curran.
- International Exposure: Curran possesses significant experience, having played 24 Test matches, and understands the pressures of the international stage well.
- Impressive Statistics: Curran holds a batting average of over 30 in first-class cricket and has claimed 221 wickets to date.
- Providing Team Balance: As a left-arm fast bowler, he adds a dangerous dimension to England's swing bowling attack. Furthermore, his ability to score quick runs in the lower order mirrors that of Ben Stokes.
Also Read: India Next T20I Series Schedule: India vs England Full Fixtures
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