Ben Stokes has come out of retirement for England’s one-day side as they prepare to defend their World Cup crown in India.

Test captain Stokes quit ODIs 13 months ago because he had a lot of work to do as a player in multiple formats and because he was worried about a long-term injury to his left knee.

Because of this health problem, the all-rounder didn’t bowl at all in the last three Tests of the drawn Ashes series at home against Australia, which just ended.

But Stokes, who was one of the stars of England’s win over New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup final at Lord’s, could now play as a specialist batsman when England goes to India in October to try to keep their title.

England will play four warm-up games against New Zealand at home next month. Stokes was named to a 15-person squad on Wednesday that could look a lot like the World Cup touring party.

England men’s national selector Luke Wright said: “Any series against New Zealand is closely fought and will provide us with an ideal opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the world.

“The return of Ben Stokes only adds to that quality with his match-winning ability and leadership. I am certain that every fan will enjoy seeing him back in an England ODI shirt again.”

Photo by EPA/SHAHZAIB AKBER