How different will Bazball look without its talisman?

Will Bazball still work without Ben Stokes as England captain? Alongside Brendon McCullum, Stokes has led a transformation of England’s Test fortunes, from a dismal defeat against the West Indies to series victories over Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, and a draw against Australia.

- SONIA TWIGG

But for the first time since Stokes took up the mantle, England are facing the prospect of at least one match, if not an entire series, without their captain. England had wrapped up a series victory against New Zealand when the national squad were released to their Hundred sides; while batting for the Northern Superchargers, Stokes sustained a hamstring injury.

He had bowled 15 balls in the first innings but while running a single, he pulled up, threw his glove off in pain and had to be helped from the field by two members of the backroom staff. Since the start of the Hundred in 2021, it has been a divisive tournament. Counties without teams have often felt aggrieved to be left out, while grateful for the money provided, and fans of the domestic game have felt alienated by it, and indifferent to the new teams.