Sydney, Jan 7 (.) England were left anxiously monitoring the fitness of skipper Ben Stokes after the all-rounder left the field early on day four of the fifth Ashes Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
According to the International Cricket Council (ICC) website, Stokes was forced off during his 28th over of Australia’s first innings, with the England camp later confirming that the captain was managing an adductor issue. His absence saw Harry Brook take over the captaincy duties in the field as England continued their efforts to rein in the hosts.
Despite Stokes being sidelined temporarily, England managed to bowl Australia out for 567 in the second session, limiting the damage after the home side had built a commanding total.
Team management later confirmed that Stokes would be available to bat, offering some relief to the visitors.
England’s tour has been plagued by injury concerns, particularly among their fast bowlers. Stokes’ issue adds to an already lengthy list that includes Gus Atkinson (hamstring), Jofra Archer (side strain), and Mark Wood (knee), compounding the challenges for the tourists, who trail 3-1 in the five-match series.
In their second innings, England suffered an early setback with opener Zak Crawley dismissed for one, but steadied through Jacob Bethell, who brought up a composed half-century to keep the visitors in the contest.
. VAN ARN