London: England Cricket’s managing director Rob Key hailed Ben Stokes for his “selfless” decision to forgo the “financial repercussions” of quitting one-day internationals.
After shockingly deciding to end his ODI career 24 hours ago, Stokes will play his 105th and last ODI at his home stadium in Durham against South Africa on Tuesday.
Stokes was chosen as England’s Test captain as Key’s first move after his appointment, but Key is aware that the stringent fixture requirements for top international athletes make it challenging for them to participate in all formats of the game.
Stokes’ central contract’s financial terms might be reviewed, but Key thinks the all-workload rounder’s reduction will be extremely beneficial to England’s Test and Twenty20 sides.
He might have simply refused, saying, “No, no, I’m the key, keep picking me for the 50-over team.
But he wants to carry England’s Test team ahead and perform his Test job as well as he can.
Although the timing definitely surprised me, I’m not shocked that he had to give up one format.
I believe Ben made a wise choice that will ultimately benefit England.
Key, who spoke to Stokes about his decision last Thursday, thinks the 31-year-old was also motivated by his desire to continue being a presence in both batting and bowling disciplines in the Test side.
England’s Test form has been revitalised under Stokes and new red-ball coach Brendon McCullum.
Since they were appointed, England has defeated New Zealand in a three-Test series and then defeated India in the series’ decisive game.
He wants to be able to contribute as an all-rounder, Key said, not only as a hitter. “His bowling is actually the thing he wants to be able to accomplish,” she added.
“To do that he feels this is the best way. I’m hoping and I’m betting that this is what gets him up to 120-plus Test matches.”
