Michael Vaughan, Tufnell back Liam Plunkett to replace Ben Stokes in the Ashes

Michael Vaughan and Phil Tufnell have put their bet on all-rounder Liam Plunkett, if Ben Stokes fails to make it to Australia for the Ashes. Stokes was named in the English squad for the Ashes even after the knowledge of brawl outside the night club but his availability looks doubtful as he was arrested after a video featuring him punching surfaced.

“He bowled really well in the one-day series [against West Indies] – he’s a big, strong bowler who runs in and hits the pitch hard. ‘He’s someone you would want in your side. A wholehearted competitor who can bat and field well. Another one is perhaps [Jamie] Porter, whose had a fantastic season for Essex.” said Tufnell.

“I’m in agreement with Phil, I can’t see Liam going – they’ll probably pick someone from the Lions – but in Plunkett they’ve got someone who could do Stokes’ role with the ball. He’ll go for runs but he’ll get some wickets. His batting is pretty strong and he’s a good fielder.” he added.

Stokes will have to give up the vice captain’s role: Vaughan

Both Vaughan and Tufnell feels that Stokes will have to part with his vice captaincy. Vaughan said that Andrew Strauss had showed lot of faith in him by electing him as the one next to Joe Root.

“I think that’s an honour that has to have taken off him,’ Vaughan said. ‘Andrew Strauss showed him a lot of faith and trust to give him that role. ‘He was doing it well on the field and was a perfect foil for Root. It’s a good combination but I don’t see how you can remain being vice-captain now.” Vaughan said.

Talking about the potential candidates who can take up the vice captaincy, Vaughan said “You’re looking at two or three names – Stuart Broad was T20 captain a few years ago but didn’t seem to like it. Then there’s Alistair Cook and Jimmy Anderson.” he added.