Ben Stokes comes out of ODI retirement as England name squads for New Zealand series

The England Men's selection panel has unveiled the squads for the upcoming One-Day International Series and T20I Series against New Zealand. The squad comprises a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent, embodying the depth of white-ball cricket prowess.

Notably, Ben Stokes makes a significant return to the ODI setup, reversing his retirement decision and reinforcing the team's strength with his match-winning skills ahead of the all-important World Cup. Joining the team is uncapped Surrey speedster Gus Atkinson, who has earned a spot in the 15-player squad.

The squad for the T20I Series boasts three uncapped players in the 20-over format- Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and John Turner. Tongue, who showcased his talent during the recent Men's Ashes Series, made a well-deserved entry. Hampshire's right-arm bowler Turner earned his maiden England squad call-up.

Luke Wright, England Men's National Selector, expressed his confidence, emphasizing the depth of talent within the white-ball cricket realm. He was happy about Stokes' return as his all-round abilities will benefit the team immensely.

“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,” Wright said as quoted by Ecb.co.uk.

The selector also highlighted the significance of offering maiden international opportunities to Atkinson and Turner, as well as Tongue's well-earned place in the T20 squad. 

“We’re also excited to give first international call-ups to both Gus Atkinson and John Turner while Josh Tongue has deserved a place in the T20 squad after impressing during the Ashes,” he added.

With the series against New Zealand looming, fans are in for nail-biting encounters, as England will be looking to showcase their skills against one of the world's best teams. After his extraordinary brilliance across the format for England, all the cricket fans would be eager to see the best of Ben Stokes who looks all set to showcase his cricketing prowess again.

England's ODI Squad: Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes

England's T20I Squad: Jos Buttler, Rehan Ahmed, Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, John Turner, Luke Wood