Ben Stokes returned to the England set-up on Tuesday after a clear-the-air meeting with head coach Brendon McCullum, who described recent tensions as a 'slight blip' and reaffirmed their strong working relationship. The pair spoke for over an hour before training at Trent Bridge ahead of the third Test against New Zealand, which will decide the series at 1-1.
McCullum dismissed suggestions of a rift, saying Stokes was 'outstanding' and looking forward to the match. 'I consider you a good friend,' McCullum told him, adding that the captain was unaware of the source of recent speculation. The coach stressed that the team is 'very aligned' and that one blemish does not ruin the respect he has for Stokes.
The meeting came after a controversial late night by Stokes and Gus Atkinson following the Lord's Test, which led to them being stood down before the 253-run defeat at the Oval. McCullum refused to discuss whether their partnership would continue beyond this week, focusing instead on the immediate challenge. He praised Stokes's recent 95 from 118 balls for Durham, calling it a sign that Stokes is 'back' and firing.
Both Stokes and Atkinson are reinstated for the series decider, with Shoaib Bashir returning as the frontline spinner, Jamie Smith back from paternity leave, and Ollie Robinson also included. The changes reflect a return to experience after the rookie side that lost at the Oval.
