So, the big man is back. Ben Stokes has been found not guilty of affray and is likely to feature at Trent Bridge after England wasted no time reinstating the all-rounder to their squad for the third Test.
While Joe Root and the England management will be delighted to have their talisman return, having sat out the second Test due to the seven-day trial at Bristol Crown Court, his re-inclusion has given them a real selection headache.
England have so many bowlers and all-rounders at the top of their game right now, who do they drop? It’s the type of selection dilemma that club cricket captains across the land could only dream of experiencing.
If England feel conditions will be similar to Lord’s, but Root feels uncomfortable entering a match with only himself as a part-time spin option, England could opt for Moeen Ali ahead of Rashid if the England captain believes the contribution from his spinner is likely to be minimal like it was at Lord’s. Moeen replacing Rashid would extend the batting line-up, enabling one of Woakes, Curran or Moeen to bat at No.9. With Stokes also likely to feature, this scenario would likely see two changes made to a winning side. We’ve also allowed Broad to rest, creating an unbelieveable batting line-up!
Cook
Jennings
Root
Pope
Bairstow
Stokes
Buttler (wk)
Curran
Moeen
Woakes
Anderson
