England have had to leave all-rounder Ben Stokes out of the Test squad for the five-match series versus India that began on 4 August after the star cricketer announced that he wanted an indefinite break from the game. Stokes, who has been nursing an injured left index finger, cited mental well-being concerns as a reason for wanting the break.
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The ECB Pledges Support
Stokes’s decision was backed by the England and Wales Cricket Board which issued a statement to the media announcing its support. The ECB added that it fully supported Stokes and would help him during the period away from cricket:
England MD Ashley Giles Weighs Inp>Speaking to the media, England managing director Ashley Giles said that the all-rounder would be given as much time as he needed to get back to match fitness. Giles commented on the tremendous courage Stokes had shown in opening about his mental well-being. The England MD added that the primary focus of the English board had always been and would continue to be the mental health and welfare of those involved.“Stokes has withdrawn from England’s Test squad ahead of the LV= Insurance Test series against India starting next week to prioritize his mental well-being and to rest his left index finger, which has not fully healed since his return to competitive cricket earlier this month. The ECB fully supports Ben’s decision, and we will continue to help him during this period away from the game.”
“Spending significant amounts of time away from family with minimal freedoms is extremely challenging. The cumulative effect of operating almost continuously in these environments has had a major impact on everyone. Ben will be given as long as he needs, and we look forward to seeing him playing cricket for England in the future.”