As England grapples with a challenging start to their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign, the sight of Ben Stokes using an inhaler during practice has raised questions and concerns about his health. The defending champions have faced a series of setbacks, and they are looking to regain their winning form as they prepare to face Sri Lanka on Thursday, October 26, at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
During his intense practice session, Ben Stokes, a key all-rounder for England and a 2019 World Cup winner, was repeatedly seen using an inhaler. While the images of Stokes using an inhaler have generated a buzz among fans and the cricketing community, neither Stokes nor the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have confirmed any health issues.
Inhalers in Cricket
Inhalers are not uncommon in the world of cricket, and players use them for various reasons, including addressing respiratory problems. In some cases, athletes may employ inhalers to manage exercise-induced asthma. It’s important to note that while the sight of Stokes using an inhaler has prompted speculation, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that he is grappling with a significant health issue.
Ben Stokes made a noteworthy decision by reversing his retirement from one-day internationals and rejoining the English squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. His retirement from ODIs had been announced in July last year, a couple of months after he was appointed England’s Test captain.
Mixed Performances in the World Cup
Stokes’ journey in the ongoing ODI World Cup has been somewhat tumultuous. He missed the first three matches due to a hip injury but returned to action against South Africa. In an unexpected turn of events, Stokes could only manage to score five runs and did not bowl during the match. With England’s struggles in the tournament, where they have secured only one victory, they currently find themselves at the bottom of the standings.
As the cricketing world keeps a close eye on the health of one of England’s key players, it remains to be seen how Stokes will perform and contribute to his team’s efforts to regain their winning momentum in the World Cup.
