Stokes to be assessed by England after returning to training

| 08 February 2019

Stokes to be assessed by England after returning to training

Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the third Test in St Lucia but wicketkeeper Ben Foakes is available.

Ben Stokes returned to training on the eve of the third Test against the West Indies but England will delay a decision on his availability until after he is assessed.

There was clearer news on England's other two injury doubts on Friday, with Chris Woakes (knee) ruled out and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes (hand) declared available, but Stokes' fitness is the major concern.

Captain Joe Root suggested the all-rounder's bruised right heel was a result of the heavy burden he took with the ball during defeats in Barbados and Antigua – bowling just over 77 overs in baking conditions – but did not dismiss suggestions the injury was sustained while running on the beach during a fitness session.

Ben Stokes bowled 77 overs in the first two Tests (Ricardo Mazalan/AP)

"Whether it was before that or during that I'm not really sure to be honest," said Root.

"It's down to a huge amount of workload over the first two Tests. He woke up sore with his heel.

"He didn't practice yesterday to give himself another day to get right. He'll train today and have to see how he pulls up after that."

Stokes could conceivably play as a specialist batsmen if he is not ready to play a full part with the ball but should he be ruled out – and with England already 2-0 down going into the third Test, a conservative call could be made – the balance of the side would change considerably.

Ben Foakes has been given the all-clear to play in the third Test (Ricardo Mazalan/AP)

"He's an integral part of all three formats and has been for some time now and gives you great balance across the board," added Root.

"As we've seen in the recent past when he's not been around it can make a huge difference.

"Of course we want Ben fit and firing and ready to go as many times as possible. But it's so important he is able to do his job properly."

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