England have recalled Ben Stokes to the playing XI for the third and final Test against New Zealand, with the all-rounder set to resume captaincy duties at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, starting June 25. The hosts confirmed their lineup ahead of the series decider, with Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson both returning after missing the second Test due to disciplinary action.
With the three-match series locked at 1-1, England will be hoping the return of their captain can provide the spark needed to secure another home series victory.
Ben Stokes back in charge after night club controversy
Stokes was unavailable for the second Test after being handed a written warning by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The punishment followed an investigation into an incident at a London nightclub involving Stokes and Atkinson shortly after England’s victory in the opening Test.
Although the ECB concluded that neither player was responsible for the violence that occurred, both were found to have breached contractual obligations and were subsequently left out of the squad for the match at The Oval.
In Stokes’ absence, former captain Joe Root stepped in as skipper. However, England struggled badly and suffered a crushing 253-run defeat, allowing New Zealand to level the series and set up a winner-takes-all finale in Nottingham. The return of Stokes is therefore a significant boost for England, not only because of his leadership qualities but also because of the energy and belief he brings to the side.
Several changes made to England’s playing XI
England have made multiple adjustments to the team that lost the second Test. Alongside the returns of Stokes and Atkinson, wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has replaced James Rew behind the stumps.
Spinner Shoaib Bashir has also earned a recall, coming in for Sonny Baker. Meanwhile, Jordan Cox and Matthew Fisher have missed out on selection for the final Test.
England playing XI for 3rd Test: Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.
The inclusion of Archer, Atkinson and Tongue gives England a pace-heavy attack, while Bashir provides a specialist spin option for conditions expected to assist bowlers as the match progresses.
Series decider offers Stokes chance for redemption
While Stokes’ return strengthens England on paper, the captain himself will be eager to improve on his personal performance from the opening Test at Lord’s. Despite England winning that contest by 115 runs, Stokes endured a difficult outing. The left-handed all-rounder managed scores of just 12 and 0 with the bat and had a limited impact with the ball, claiming only one wicket while bowling seven overs across the match.
As a result, the Nottingham Test presents an important opportunity for him to silence critics and remind everyone of his value as one of the game’s premier all-rounders. Beyond his individual form, Stokes will also be keen to move past the off-field controversy that led to his temporary suspension. With the series on the line and home pride at stake, England will look to their captain to lead from the front once again.
