Ben Stokes’ absence is good for India – Former player

Ben Stokes is out of the Test series against India which is good news for India if former India cricketer Aakash Chopra is to be believed. Ahead of the five-match series, the star all-rounder announced an indefinite break from the game to focus on his mental health.

Aakash spoke about the impact that Stokes’ absence could have on the series.

“India will benefit a lot from Ben Stokes’ absence. He is as good as two players in one. In Tests, he plays like a proper batsman coming in at No.5 or No.6 and has the ability to change the course of a match. He is a wicket-taker with the ball and is also an excellent slip fielder. So his absence is good news for India,” quipped Chopra.

He further stated that with no Stokes in the team, the Virat Kohli-led team could dismiss the tail sooner.

“The pressure will be a bit less on India and they might be able to dismiss the tail sooner. England will be a bit weakened even before the series has started,” added Chopra.