GREATER KNEED

Selectors put ODI glory over Stokes' Test fitness

- GIDEON BROOKS

ENGLAND selectors have defended their Ben Stokes World Cup gamble, insisting nothing is more important than retaining their 50-over crown. 

Stokes’ decision to reverse his ODI retirement has prompted concerns it could impact his role as Test captain, given a chronic knee issue and with an important series against India next year.

The Test skipper, who struggled throughout the Ashes, had earmarked the five months down time between series to get the issue sorted, possibly with surgery.