England skipper Jos Buttler gave his tackle whether or not all-rounder Ben Stokes will likely be in competition for his or her upcoming World Cup recreation in opposition to South Africa. Stokes reversed his retirement to have one other dance within the 50-over format, hoping to contribute to England’s title defence. But since arriving in India, Stokes is but to play a single match as he picked up a slight niggle in his hip throughout a apply session earlier than their marketing campaign opener in opposition to New Zealand. Stokes who’s itching to return to the sector declared himself out there for the conflict in opposition to the Proteas on Thursday.

After the Three Lions suffered a stunning defeat to Afghanistan of their earlier fixture, Buttler can be seeking to consider each choice that’s out there to him.

“Yeah, I think I’ve got so many options within the squad selection it is always tough and you’re working out the right balance, always venue dependent as well so been a good chance to see the wicket here today and gather a bit more information as well. But obviously Ben trained really well last night. It’s great to see him back. He obviously brings a lot on the field and with his presence and leadership skills as well as someone who is always good to turn to. So, he adds a lot of value,” Buttler stated within the pre-match press convention.

Buttler additionally talked about their opponents, South Africa, who’re enjoying a superb model of cricket on this World Cup. South Africa declared themselves as a pressure to be reckoned with following their 134-run overcome Australia.

Buttler talked in regards to the risk that the Proteas carry and stated, “Yeah, I think they’ve been they’ve been playing some really good cricket I think obviously the top six is a very strong top six and I think pace with the ball is one of their strengths. It’s something I think both teams like as well. We have pace in both attacks and both teams like pace on the ball so as well it should be a really fascinating contest. They’re a really good team. You always expect tough challenge when you play against South Africa and it’s going to be a brilliant game.”

South Africa will face England on Friday on the Ekana Sports City, Lucknow.

England squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.

South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV employees and is revealed from a syndicated feed.)