Ashes 2023: Ollie Robinson up for Australian challenge post injury scare

England pacer Ollie Robinson suffered an injury on his left ankle and was in doubt for the upcoming Ashes 2023. However, following a scan, it has been understood that the pacer did not suffer any major injury and will be fit enough to play in the one-off Test against Ireland and also in the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia. 

Notably, the 29-year-old was playing for Sussex in the ongoing County Championship match against Glamorgan when he felt a little discomfort in his ankle. He was suffering from soreness, and on Sunday, May 21, the cricketer was spotted in crutches which created a lot of buzz in the cricketing world. He was also wearing protective boots, but fortunately, the cricketer will recover soon and hit the ground running.

England and Wales Cricket Board, in the meantime, confirmed the same and stated that the pacer will join the national team for the match against Ireland, which is slated to start on Thursday, June 1.

“Scan results have revealed no damage to the ankle and that Robinson will join up with the England men’s Test squad this weekend ahead of the LV= Insurance Test match against Ireland starting on Thursday, June 1 at Lord’s,” the statement read.

On the other hand, Paul Farbrace, Sussex's head coach and Robinson’s stepfather, stated that the player is feeling pain while walking and not when he is running. However, he is expected to recover really soon and is also expected to play the Test match against Ireland. In the absence of ace pacer Jofra Archer, Ollie will be an important part of the playing XI. Veteran English pacer James Anderson is also reported to take a break from the Ireland match in order to keep himself fit and ready for the Ashes. In that case, Ollie, along with Stuart Broad, will lead England’s bowling attack against their neighbouring nation.

Meanwhile, Ben Stokes’ availability is a doubt as well. The all-rounder suffered a knee injury during IPL 2023, and since then, he did not play a single match for Chennai Super Kings. He is reportedly fit now, but just like Anderson, the England red-ball skipper may skip the Ireland match to keep himself ready for the marquee clash.