The third Test between India and England kicked off on Thursday, July 10 at Lord’s Cricket Ground, and while England ended Day 1 in a solid position at 251/4, all attention turned to Ben Stokes’ fitness after stumps.
The England skipper appeared to suffer a groin issue late in the day and needed physio treatment on the field.
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With the series tied 1-1, and four more days left in this crucial clash, fans are eager to know - Will Stokes be fit enough to return on Day 2?
What exactly happened to Ben Stokes on Day 1?
Stokes seemed to injure his groin muscle while stretching forward to handle a delivery from India’s Nitish Kumar Reddy during the final session. He pulled up almost instantly, showing visible discomfort.
Physios had to come out and treat him mid-over. Even after treatment, Stokes was seen limping and struggling between the wickets, especially when running twos. Despite being clearly in pain, he continued to bat and ended unbeaten on 39 off 102 balls.
England official word on Stokes' injury
After Day 1, vice-captain Ollie Pope addressed the media but did not confirm the severity of Stokes’ injury. He admitted the situation was uncertain.
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"Fingers crossed he can do something magical and come back strong," Pope said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "I've not seen him since, so fingers crossed there's nothing too serious,"
Pope also said he would try to make sure that Stokes doesn’t overexert himself and risk worsening the injury.
"But clearly we've got a big Test over the next four days and we've got a big two coming up as well, so it is important to try and manage him," he added.
Will Ben Stokes play on Day 2? Injury update ahead of India’s first innings
At this point, nothing is confirmed, but the signs are mixed. While Stokes didn’t retire hurt and stayed unbeaten at the end of play, his mobility was visibly limited.
That could raise questions about whether he’ll take the field when India come in to bat or if he’ll even resume batting if needed.
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Given the hot weather expected in London on Friday, July 11, with temperatures touching 32°C, managing his workload becomes even more important.
If Stokes is advised to rest or is ruled out temporarily, Harry Brook is likely to step up in the leadership group. He has been seen as the next in line to lead and has previous captaincy experience at domestic level.