Jos Buttler Confirms Ben Stokes 'Unlikely' To Feature In World Cup Clash Against Bangladesh

Jos Buttler branded the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium's outfield poor while confirming that Ben Stoks

Ben Stokes of England prepares to bat in the nets during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 England & Bangladesh Net Sessions at HPCA Stadium on October 09, 2023 in Dharamsala, India.

Source : Getty Images

England captain Jos Buttler didn't mince words when he assessed the state of the HPCA Stadium outfield, branding it as "poor" just ahead of their highly anticipated World Cup match against Bangladesh. His remarks echoed the concerns expressed earlier by Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott, who also found the outfield unsatisfactory following their recent match against Bangladesh.

Buttler, known for his candor, expressed his worries during a pre-match press conference, stating, "It's poor in my own opinion. I think anytime you're talking about being cautious while diving or fielding, it goes against the team's spirit."

The captain highlighted that the outfield's condition was different from when they played here during the IPL. He mentioned that several players had slipped on the outfield during the Afghanistan-Bangladesh match, and this raised concerns about potential injuries.

Buttler emphasized that injuries can happen on any surface, but going into a match with these apprehensions isn't ideal. He mentioned, "If you feel like you're having to hold yourself back, it's not a place you want to be as a team or player, especially in a World Cup match."

Stokes Unlikely For Clash Against Bangladesh: Buttler

Despite these concerns, Buttler stated that the outfield's state would not deter his team from giving their best against Bangladesh. He did mention that Ben Stokes, who is recovering from a hip injury, might not play in the upcoming match.

"Yeah, probably unlikely. It's good to see him back in the nets and building back towards full fitness but probably unlikely for tomorrow," Buttler said.

Notably, Stokes had not played the team's World Cup opener against New Zealand due to an injury concern.

In contrast, Bangladesh coach Rangana Herath acknowledged the need for his players to adapt to the outfield's conditions. He expressed no intention to impose restrictions on his team. The ICC had rated the outfield as average after the Afghanistan-Bangladesh match.

Herath appreciated the ICC's efforts to prepare the venue and was content with their decision to allow One-Day Internationals to be played there.

Despite concerns about the outfield's quality, both teams seemed determined to give their best in the upcoming clash.

(With Inputs From PTI)