IND vs ENG: Ben Stokes Walks Off Injured, Returns After ECB Clarification

But the relief news for the fans is that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) immediately gave an update on Stokes’ injury.

What is the whole matter

Stokes was spitting fire with the bat in the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025.

He along with Joe Root made a blistering partnership of 142 runs in 219 balls and pushed India on the backfoot.

Stokes hit a half-century in 97 balls and it seemed that he would score a century soon. But suddenly drama in the 116th over, Stokes suffered a cramp in his left leg and had to retire hurt after scoring 66 runs. This was the first time Stokes retired hurt in international cricket.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, commentating on Sky Sports, expressed concern and said:

“It’s rare to see a batter walk off with cramp. But Stokes clearly feels he can’t bat properly and is actually hindering his team’s progress – or it’s something more serious…”

ECB update

ECB quickly issued an update and clarified that Stokes’ old hamstring injury has not returned. It is just a problem of cramp in the left leg. That is, the injury is not serious, just a little rest is needed.

After taking treatment with the physio for some time, Stokes again came on the field after Chris Woakes was out in the 130th over.

His return filled the England fans with enthusiasm. Former English spinner Phil Tufnell said on BBC Test Match Special:

“With seven wickets down, you’ve done most of the job, now it’s time to go full throttle and push the lead past 200, especially with Ben Stokes back on the field.”

Meanwhile, Joe Root won everyone’s heart by playing a brilliant innings of 150 runs. His innings put England in a strong position. Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta praised Root and said:

“Joe Root’s magnificent innings, he looks a bit disappointed, as he should be because he was batting so well. A brilliant ball, tossed up slowly in the air and the lack of pace dragged him out of the crease.”

For now, Stokes’ return and Root’s explosive innings have increased the problems for India. England is now pushing for a lead of 200+ runs.