And Finally Ben Stokes comes out of ODI retirement ahead of the World Cup

Ben Stokes has reversed his previous decision to retire from one-day internationals ahead of England's bid to defend their 50-over men's World Cup title in India.

Stokes, who is also the Test captain, retired from the ODI format 13 months ago due to the demanding demands of being a multi-format player, as well as concerns over a recurrent left knee problem.

Due to this injury, he was unable to bowl in the remaining three Tests of the recently finished Ashes series against Australia.

Despite this setback, Stokes, who was key in England's World Cup final victory over New Zealand at Lord's in 2019, may now take on the role of a specialist batter as England seeks to maintain their title in India, which begins in October.

England has planned four warm-up ODIs against New Zealand on home soil in the coming month. Stokes, who was named to a 15-man team on Wednesday, could be a vital component in the lineup, which is anticipated to mirror the side that will travel to Russia for the World Cup.

"Any series against New Zealand will provide us with an ideal opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the world," England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) men's team selector Luke Wright said.

With his match-winning talent and leadership, Ben Stokes' comeback just adds to that quality. "I am confident that every England ODI fan will enjoy seeing him back in an England shirt."