Overview

• Ben Stokes has completed a disciplined four-month recovery from hamstring surgery, aiming to return in his best physical condition yet.
• The injury, sustained during England's December 2024 tour of New Zealand, was a recurrence of a previous hamstring tear from August 2024.
• Stokes emphasized his readiness to resume his dual role as a batting all-rounder and fourth seamer, aiming to dominate with both bat and ball.
• Ongoing discussions with coach Brendon McCullum focus on managing Stokes' workload to ensure sustained fitness through England's demanding Test calendar.
• Former New Zealand seamer Tim Southee joins England's coaching staff as a specialist skills coach, replacing James Anderson in the role.