England bank on stokes factor to revive wc campaign

In this World Cup, England has not exhibited the qualities of a champion. With two losses in three games, they seem to be a pale imitation of the World Cup champions from 2019. Their reputation and perceived invincibility have been damaged by losses to Afghanistan and New Zealand, respectively. When they play South Africa in Mumbai on Saturday (October 21), with Ben Stokes back in action, they may find the spark of inspiration they need to turn around their sputtering campaign.

After missing the first three games, Stokes, arguably  the best all-rounder in the world, is prepared to play again. Although he will likely only bat and not bowl, his availability couldn’t have come at a better for the Jos Buttler-led team. Even England’s opponents believe that Stokes is the X-factor that England need at this point in the championship.

“I think a fully fit Ben Stokes obviously does strengthen the England team. He is an X-Factor player. He is the guy that can change the course of the game. He’s someone that we’ve covered in our preparation. We know we’re going to have to be at the top of our game to get him unstuck. We have a lot of respect for him, Ben Stokes. We know what he can do, but we’ll prepare for him as well as we can,” Temba Bavuma, the captain of South Africa, said.

Given that India and New Zealand are competing to secure teo that could serve as a semifinal. The England-South Africa game is one of the few that could serve as a semifinal. The England captain is more than happy to have his star all-around player for this important match.

He is very valuable, says Buttler. “I think I’ve got so many options within the squad selection it is always tough and you’re working out the right balance, always venue dependent as well so been a good chance to see the wicket here today and gather a bit more information as well. But obviously Ben trained really well last night. It’s great to see him back. He obviously brings a lot on the field and with his presence and leadership skills as well as someone who is always good to turn to.”

The low attendance for non-Indian games during this World Cup is one of its notable features. The main concern before the England-South Africa game is whether the Wankhede Stadium will be packed. Given that both teams recently suffered shocking losses to underdogs-South Africa against the Netherlands and England against Afghanistan-this question assumes even greater significance. Why not? questions Bavuma. “If I was a fan, I’d definitely want  to come and watch,” he states. However, the organizers anticipate a packed house.

“I’d love to think so. I think if I was a cricket fan, I’d want to be watching South Africa versus England. I think it will be a tightly contested game. It’ll be an exciting game. Both teams, I guess, will be looking to prove themselves, if I could say that. There’ll be individuals in both camps who are wanting to put their hand up for the team,” Bavuma says of the inaugural match that Mumbai is playing at the World Cup.