Stokes Injury Deepens England's Troubles in Test Defeat

Published at: December 16, 2024 11:18 AM

Updated at: December 16, 2024 4:45 PM

England is heading toward a heavy defeat in the third Test against New Zealand, made worse by a troubling recurrence of Ben Stokes' hamstring injury. Stokes appeared in visible pain and left the field clutching his left hamstring, the same one he injured in August, which had already caused him to miss four Tests. While bowling during the afternoon session on day three, Stokes pulled up mid-over and did not return for the rest of New Zealand’s innings. He is set to have a scan overnight.

Even before Stokes’ injury, England’s chances looked bleak as Kane Williamson’s brilliant century strengthened New Zealand’s dominant position. Williamson scored 156, supported by Rachin Ravindra’s 44 and Daryl Mitchell’s 60, taking New Zealand to a massive total of 453. This left England needing a near-impossible 658 to win.

In a tough start to their chase, England lost Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, ending the day at 18-2. Play will resume on day four at an earlier time, with clear weather expected for the remaining days, giving New Zealand ample time to push for victory.

Stokes’ injury is a major concern for England. Having recently recovered from knee surgery, the all-rounder has now suffered two hamstring setbacks within five months. This latest injury raises doubts about his long-term role as a Test bowler. Stokes has shouldered a heavy workload, bowling more overs in this series than at any other time in his captaincy.

Meanwhile, Williamson shone on his home ground, Seddon Park, where he averages nearly 95. He reached his 33rd Test century and punished England’s bowlers, anchoring New Zealand’s dominant display. Though his hopes for a double century ended when he was caught for 156, the team’s colossal lead seemed more than enough.

England’s batting struggles continued, with Duckett playing a rash shot and Crawley falling lbw, continuing a poor series for the opener, who ended with a disappointing average of 8.66. As England fights to avoid a crushing defeat, the focus also shifts to the fitness of their captain, Ben Stokes, and the implications for his future.