‘Staggered by lack of…’ – Former England skipper slams Ben Stokes ahead of Leeds Test

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan has slammed current Test captain Ben Stokes ahead of the five-match series against India. The 34-year-old has been having a tough time with his fitness in recent times and last played the four-day Test against Zimbabwe. Stokes scored nine runs with the bat and also picked three wickets for the home side. 

Speaking to the Daily Mail ahead of the Leeds Test, former skipper Vaughan said, “I've been staggered by the lack of time in the middle that Ben's had as a batter. He didn't have a great year last year when he got his injuries. A Scottie Scheffler or a footballer going into a major event would be playing. He's had no game time.”

Michael Vaughan went on to add, “Why wouldn't you want to play for England Lions just for a knock, not to bowl? He was bowling against Zimbabwe, and clearly he's fine, but why wouldn't you just want a bit of time in the middle? Call me old school, but I think it's quite nice to go out and hit a few balls.”

The former English skipper added, “England can only win in Australia with him, and that's him being the all-rounder. If he goes to Australia just as the batter, that completely breaks the balance of the team, and as much as he's a genius captain, the team are 30-40 per cent better when he bowls. To win in Australia, he has to be bowling and batting well."

Ben Stokes asks his players not to fear Jasprit Bumrah

Speaking to the media ahead of the opening game against India on Friday, the home team skipper asked his players to be fearless against Jasprit Bumrah. Stokes said, “No fear. In international cricket, you come up against quality opposition all the time. We know his class and what he brings to any team he plays for, but in terms of fear, definitely not." 

The 34-year-old also said, “I don't think one bowler alone is going to win the series for either team. All 11 players have to stand up. I don't think there is just one person in either team holding the key to success.”