Will Ben Stokes return to limited-overs cricket for England?
What's the story
England's Test captain, Ben Stokes, has expressed his willingness to return to the national team's limited-overs squad.
Despite a series of injuries and a recent knee surgery that ruled him out of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, Stokes remains optimistic about his future in white-ball cricket.
He shared these sentiments during an interview with Sky Sports at his home ground in Durham on Tuesday.
Team evolution
Stokes praises England's new white-ball direction
Stokes praised the evolution of England's white-ball team, highlighting the emergence of new talent.
"This white-ball team has gone in a new direction," he said. "We've seen some unbelievable talent come through, just to point out one: Jacob Bethell, who I think is going to be a superstar."
He also expressed satisfaction with his own contributions to the team so far.
Return readiness
Stokes ready to return if called upon
Stokes, who has represented England in 114 ODIs and 43 T20s, is prepared to rejoin the team.
"If I am part of the white-ball teams' plans going forward in any way, shape or form then great," he stated.
"If I get the call, saying 'do you want to come and play?' It's definitely going to be a 'yes.'"
He also acknowledged that he wouldn't be disappointed if not selected as it would mean someone else is performing exceptionally well.
Injury update
Stokes's recovery from injury and future plans
Stokes missed England's recent 2-1 Test series victory over Sri Lanka due to a hamstring tear.
He is scheduled for a scan today to evaluate his recovery before England's upcoming three-match Test tour in Pakistan next week.
When asked about his readiness to bowl and take part as an all-rounder for the 1st Test, he responded cautiously, "I think that's you getting ahead of yourself."