Ben Stokes declares himself fit for second New Zealand Test despite injury scare

England captain Ben Stokes suffered an injury scare on Day four of the first Test against New Zealand when he pulled out in the middle of his seventh over. As a result, Gus Atkinson finished his over, with Stokes walking off the field.

There were some concerns around Stokes' fitness, who bowled nearly 20 overs in the match, the most since December 2022. It is understood that Stokes left the field as a precaution due to stiffness in his lower back. Despite that, Stokes has declared himself fit to take the field for the second Test, which will get underway in Wellington on December 6. 

"I've not spent that much time out in the middle for a long time," Stokes said in the post-match presentation.

"It's been a pretty heavy week this week: a lot of time in the field, bowled 20 overs, and then spent some time out in the middle."

Stokes further added that he had hurt his back while fielding. "I hurt my back diving for a ball as well," he said. 

"It's more management than anything else: with where we were in the game, it didn't feel necessary to eke out any more balls than I needed to. I think the body is going to be good for this outing, and I'm raring to go for Wellington."

A win in Wellington will see England winning their first Test series in New Zealand since 2008.

If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out on our content — big time. Download the App here