England Sweat on Stokes' Fitness as Series-Clinching Win Looms at Old Trafford

England is cautiously optimistic about Ben Stokes' bowling fitness as they aim to secure a series-clinching victory at Old Trafford. The all-rounder battled cramps during the fourth day of the Manchester Test, casting a shadow over his availability for the crucial final day.

Ben Stokes grimaces in pain during his innings. © Getty

After a magnificent century and a five-wicket haul in the first innings, Stokes was unable to bowl in England's second innings as India's KL Rahul and Shubman Gill forged a strong partnership.

Marcus Trescothick, England's assistant coach, addressed concerns about Stokes' condition. "He's a bit stiff and sore," Trescothick said. "He's had quite a big workload in the last few weeks... We are hoping that with another night's rest and a bit more physio work overnight, he'll be back."

England dominated the Test from the beginning, but their attack appeared weakened without Stokes, the series' leading wicket-taker. He first experienced cramps while batting on the third evening, eventually reaching a remarkable 141.

During India's second innings, Stokes was seen clutching his hamstring. Trescothick downplayed injury fears but acknowledged the physical toll. Stokes has bowled a significant number of overs in the series, reaching a total of 129 overs.

Trescothick admitted that Stokes' potential absence would be a significant setback. However, he expressed confidence in the rest of the team. "You take anybody out of a four-man attack or five-man attack, it creates a hole," he said. "It's then just up to everybody else to sort of pick up pieces and do the extra workload."

Trescothick hinted that limiting Stokes' bowling on the fourth day may have been a strategic decision to conserve him for the final day. He also acknowledged the challenge of managing a player like Stokes, given his unwavering commitment to the game. "He is that person who just wants to be involved in the game all the time," Trescothick stated.

He emphasized the importance of managing Stokes' workload to ensure his longevity. "If we can somehow find a way to limit the amount of overs he bowls in particular, then, of course, we have done," Trescothick concluded. "The more games he can string together as a captain and as a leader in the group and the all-rounder he is, the better that's going to be for the team."