December 17, 2024: England Test captain Ben Stokes has made it clear that he won’t scale back his aggressive approach to his game, despite suffering a recurrence of his hamstring injury during the third Test against New Zealand at Seddon Park. The injury occurred on Day 3, while Stokes was bowling to New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra. He immediately felt discomfort in his left hamstring and was forced to leave the field for treatment.
By the time England suffered a heavy 423-run defeat on Day 4, Stokes was seen sitting with his left thigh heavily strapped, visibly frustrated by the setback. According to ESPNcricinfo, Stokes will undergo scans in Hamilton on Wednesday to assess the extent of the injury. This is the second time in just five months that Stokes has dealt with a hamstring issue, following a similar injury sustained during The Hundred in August, which had already ruled him out of the opening Test against Pakistan in October.
Despite the recurrence of the injury, Stokes has made it clear that he is unwilling to change his approach to the game. “I worked really hard to get myself into position to play the role that I did this game. And it’s just one of those unfortunate things. But nah, I ain’t holding back,” he said.
Stokes has long been known for his fearless and aggressive style of play, often putting his body on the line for his team. He reflected on his mindset, acknowledging the risks involved in being a professional athlete, particularly in a high-intensity sport like Test cricket. “Every time you walk out to the field as an athlete, you’re putting yourself at risk of getting injured. Whether you feel great or you don’t feel great. I worked my arse off to get to where I was in this game in particularly with my body. It’s just sod’s law—the first time in a while I feel like I’m young again, something happens.”
The 33-year-old all-rounder was visibly emotional about having to leave the field, as he had been in great physical condition and was eager to contribute. Despite the disappointment, Stokes quickly reframed his thoughts, saying, “You’re always asking yourself, ‘Could I have done more? Should have done this, should have done that?’ But you know, when you sleep in it, and you take the emotion out of it, you realise that when you’re walking out there, you’re always putting yourself at risk of an injury.”
Stokes’ injury came at a time when England had already clinched the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy with a 2-1 series victory over New Zealand, which was a consolation win for the Kiwis in the context of a 423-run defeat in the third Test. Stokes had bowled 24 overs in the first innings, conceding 91 runs while picking up just one wicket. In the second innings, his role was limited, as he bowled only 12.2 overs and claimed two wickets for 52 runs.
Despite the challenges, Stokes’ leadership and contributions were critical throughout the series, and his comments reveal a strong sense of determination to keep pushing himself, regardless of the physical toll.
As England prepares for their next challenge, much will depend on Stokes’ recovery. The scans on his hamstring will provide clarity on his fitness, but the all-rounder’s mindset remains unchanged. While the injury is a setback, Stokes’ refusal to “hold back” is a testament to his commitment and resilience, characteristics that have defined his career.
For Stokes, it’s not just about playing through pain—it’s about being fully involved in every aspect of the game, knowing the risks but refusing to shy away from the intensity that makes him one of the best all-rounders in the world. As he continues to recover, both Stokes and England fans will be hoping this injury won’t derail his aspirations for the future, including leading his team in the upcoming series.
