Stokes eases fears over fitness after England test triumph

Ben Stokes played down concerns about his fitness after England’s eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the first Test at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Sunday. During his seventh over and bowled the last three balls, he gave the ball to Gus Atkinson. Stokes stayed out of the field until the New Zealand innings was completed at lunch, however, and said after the matchThat he didn’t want to push his body unnecessarily during the match but won. At the presentation ceremony, he said, “This week has been quite heavy, I bowled 20 overs, spent a lot of time in the field, some time in between. And I also hurt my back diving for a ball.” It’s more management than anything else. With where we were in the game, I didn’t feel the need to take out too many balls.I think the body will be good for this tour, and I’m ready to go to Wellington.” The second Test begins at Basin Reserve on Friday, and England head to the New Zealand capital with a spring in their step. After Christchurch’s win, Stokes’ Championship teammate Bryden Carrs set the stage for victory with 10 wickets and 42, his first five In the Test, in New Zealand’s second innings.