Ben Stokes was worried during 2019 World Cup: Details here
What's the story
Ben Stokes was England's hero in the ICC World Cup 2019 and had a dream tournament to hand his side a maiden title. However, amidst all the glory and performances, things weren't easy for the champion all-rounder. Stokes, who mesmerized with his consistency and a grand show in the final, said he had to cope with major self-doubts. Here's more.
Strain
I was certainly feeling the strain, says Stokes
In an interview with The Guardian, Stokes said he had to tackle his fears in order to get the best out of himself. "I was certainly feeling the strain and I told David Young, our team psychologist, as much as after he invited me for a coffee. He said, 'How are things, Ben?' I told him, 'I'm nervous' and opened up," he said.
Worry
Stokes was worried from the inside during CWC 19
Stokes said that he wasn't really confident on the inside. Before the end of the group stage, when England were scraping to progress into the last-four stage, he came clear to his teammates about what he was feeling. "I am nervous, I am anxious, I am worrying about what happens if we don't win. Believe me, I am worried," Stokes told his teammates.
CWC 19
Stokes had a tremendous CWC 19 campaign
Stokes went to light up the World Cup held in England and Wales. He was adjudged the player of the tournament for his all-round exploits. The all-rounder even won the player of the match award in the final for his gritty knock. He scored 465 runs in 11 matches during CWC 19. His feats included five fifties at an average of 66.42.
Mental health
Stokes opens up on mental health issues
Recently, a lot of focus has been on mental health issues of players. Stokes revealed there's no weakness in being worried or dealing with fear. "As professional sportsmen at the top of the game we do have worries," he said. "We do think of the worst and that's absolutely fine. There's no weakness in feeling like that."