Ben Stokes to miss out in the third Test against West Indies

If there is any player who has grabbed the most number of eyeballs in the ongoing England-West Indies Test series, then he is Ben Stokes. The England all-rounder led the side in the first Test in the absence of Joe Root. Though England lost that game, Ben Stokes was lauded for his all-rounder performances.

If this was not enough, Ben Stoked exhibited an even better display of his all-round prowess in the second Test. He scored 176 and 78 in the first and second innings respectively, besides picking 3 wickets in the match. His performance helped England level the three-match series 1-1.

His stellar knocks in both the Tests also helped him to claim the number one spot in the ICC Tests rankings for all-rounders.

While the fans would want him to see more of him in the final Test, the England team management has decided to give him rest for the third and final Test in a bid to manage his workload ahead of the upcoming series against Pakistan. England coach, Chris Silverwood recently talked about Ben Stokes’ importance in the team, but also stressed the importance of giving adequate rest to make sure he remains fit and active.

“We want him out there as much as we can; everyone can see how good he is,” Silverwood said.

“But you know what, we’re going to consider rotating him. He’s been at the centre of the last couple of games and we’ve got to make sure he’s okay. But if he is fit and healthy, he’ll play.”

England and West Indies have won one match apiece in the three-match series. Both teams would look to win the last Test and thereby clinch the trophy. The third and final Test match will be played at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester between 24th July 2020 and 28th July 2020.