ENG vs NZ: Ben Stokes Out of England Playing 11 for 3rd Test? Who will be ENG Captain?

ENG vs NZ: The Test series between England and New Zealand is about to conclude. The Stokes-MCcullum era started on a high note and they kind of gave the template of the brand of cricket England will play. The hosts have displayed dominating performances so far and have already sealed the series 2-0 with one match to go. They would be eyeing a whitewash and would be looking to reply to all the critics that they have faced over the last year.

ENG vs NZ: Ben Stokes is to be doubtful for the third Test against New Zealand

The dead-rubber third Test slated between England and New Zealand is slated to take place at Leeds from June 23. With James Anderson already being doubtful for the hosts, it is now learned the skipper Ben Stokes might miss the last match too.

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Stokes missed practice on Tuesday (21st June) as he was unwell and had a chesty cough. The all-rounder underwent a COVID-19 test and returned a negative result as confirmed by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Stokes’ fitness will be monitored ahead of the match and only then a call will be taken on his availability for the third Test. This gives headache to head coach Brendon McCullum as who to name skipper if the all-rounder missed the match.

ENG vs NZ: Who will captain England in Ben Stokes’ absence

With England having a potential young side, they didn’t name anyone as the vice-captain ahead of the Test series. However, if Stokes misses the last Test, it is likely that pacer Stuart Broad can lead the side for last Test against New Zealand.

Having led England side earlier, Broad is likely to be first choice for the captaincy. The likes of Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow and James Anderson can also considered as the option, given their experience. It remains to be seen who the England name their skipper for the last match if all-rounder misses the match.

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