England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss his side's remaining two Tests of the #raisethebat series against Pakistan due to family reasons. In a statement released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), it was confirmed that the 29-year-old will leave the UK later this week to travel to New Zealand to be with his family.
"He will miss England's two Test matches against Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl starting on Thursday 13 August and Friday 21 August," read the statement.
"The England and Wales Cricket Board, along with the Stokes family, requests that all media respects the family's privacy at this time."
Back in December, Stokes' father, Ged was hospitalised in Johannesburg for what the ECB termed as "a serious illness". He has since been recovering back home in New Zealand.
Stokes, who did not bowl in the first innings of the opening Test at Old Trafford, was the only English player who failed to open the account with the bat as England were bundled out for just 219 by Pakistan. Returning with the ball, the all-rounder picked two for 11 in just four overs as his side made a brilliant comeback in the second innings.
For the second time running, he failed to do the talking with the bat, dismissing on nine off 20, but an exhilarating effort by Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes guided England to a three-wicket victory.
More to follow...
Feature image courtesy: AFP / Lee Smith
