Ben Stokes Reflects on Leadership as England Prepares for New Zealand Test Series

The England captain addresses past challenges and bold team decisions ahead of the inaugural Crowe-Thorpe Trophy in Christchurch.

• Ben Stokes has apologized to his team for his behavior during the Pakistan tour, citing personal and physical struggles, including a hamstring injury and a burglary at his home.
• England aims to bounce back from a mixed year, with seven wins and seven losses, as they face New Zealand in the first Test at Hagley Oval, starting Wednesday night UK time.
• The series will introduce the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, honoring late cricket legends Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe, with bats from their careers incorporated into the design.
• Jacob Bethell, a 21-year-old debutant with no professional centuries, has been controversially placed at No. 3 in England’s batting lineup, a decision defended by Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
• New Zealand, buoyed by a historic 3-0 series win in India, welcomes Kane Williamson back to the squad as they pursue a potential spot in the World Test Championship final.

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