On day five
Image Source: IANS
'The Risk Was Way Too High': Ben Stokes Opens Up On Shoulder Injury Ruling Him Out Of Oval Test
On Day Five: England captain Ben Stokes has ruled himself out of the series-deciding fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India at The Oval, citing a shoulder injury that he said was “too big a risk” to aggravate.
The 34-year-old all-rounder, who has been England’s talisman throughout the gripping four-match series, announced on the eve of the final Test, confirming that vice-captain Ollie Pope would lead the team in his absence.
“Disappointed to not finish the series. I have a decent tear in the muscle I can’t pronounce,” Stokes said in the pre-match press conference. “I came down here this morning trying to find ways just to contribute to the batting. After discussions with the medical team, it was decided. The risk was way too high. I wouldn't have expected anyone else in my place to risk this as well.”
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