What Are the Top Options for England’s Captaincy if Ben Stokes Misses the Sri Lanka Tests?

Ben Stokes, casts a shadow over the team that even Manchester’s weather would envy. Stokes, the cricketing colossus whose all-round brilliance is as indispensable as tea during a rain delay, suffered a hamstring injury while heroically representing the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on August 11. With the first Test just around the corner on August 21, the team management faces the Herculean task of finding someone who can not only wear Stokes’ captain’s armband but also wield his bat and ball with the same game-changing flair.

Though vice-captain Ollie Pope is poised to don the captain’s cape, filling the chasm left by Ben Stokes is a task akin to replacing a thunderstorm with a gentle drizzle. However, the ongoing County Championship has presented several promising candidates who could rise to the occasion. 

Lyndon James

Lyndon James

Lyndon James, the 25-year-old all-rounder from Nottinghamshire, could be a strong contender to fill Stokes’ shoes. James has been in exceptional form this County Championship season, scoring 349 runs at an average of 43.62, including one century and one half-century. He has also taken 20 wickets at an average of 30.10, showcasing his capability with both bat and ball.

James’ first-class record includes over 50 games, 2,200 runs, and 74 wickets, making him a seasoned performer at the domestic level. His recent performances, including a vital 47* in a recent game for Nottinghamshire, highlight his ability to make crucial contributions. His all-round skills and recent form make him a compelling choice for England, offering a like-for-like replacement for Stokes.

Ben Foakes

Ben Foakes

With Ben Stokes potentially missing out, the experienced Surrey wicket-keeper Ben Foakes could be about to make a comeback. With 25 Tests under his belt, Foakes has been a reliable performer in the past, though he was left out of the recent home series against the West Indies. Despite a challenging series in India, Foakes’ experience and proven ability in English conditions could make him a valuable addition to the squad.

Foakes averages 40 in his six home Tests, a notable improvement over his overall average of 29.20. Although his County Championship numbers this season have been underwhelming, his previous performances in Test cricket, particularly in English conditions, could see him play a crucial role. If selected, Foakes could either slot in as a specialist batsman or share wicket-keeping duties with Jamie Smith, depending on the team’s strategy.

Paul Walter

Paul Walter

Paul Walter, the 30-year-old all-rounder from Essex, has been in sensational form in the 2024 County Championship Division One. With 366 runs at an impressive average of 61 and a strike rate of 68.28, including one century and three half-centuries, Walter has demonstrated his batting prowess. Additionally, his left-arm medium pace has contributed three wickets in four matches this season.

Walter’s ability to offer left-handed batting and his role as a medium-pace bowler brings a unique dynamic to the England team, which could benefit from his variety. With 48 first-class games and over 2,200 runs, Walter is experienced and ready for a potential national call-up. His current form and skill set make him a viable candidate to step into a role similar to Stokes’, balancing both batting and bowling responsibilities.

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