Stokes Injury Scare: England Captain's Fitness in Doubt Ahead of Lord's Test Against India

England is anxiously awaiting news on Ben Stokes's fitness after the captain appeared to suffer a groin injury during the first day of the fourth Test against India at Lord's. Stokes, who remained unbeaten on 39 alongside Joe Root, visibly struggled with pain towards the end of the day's play.

Ben Stokes was in considerable pain while batting on the first day © Getty

The incident occurred when Stokes attempted to leave a delivery from Nitish Reddy, clutching his right groin immediately afterward. He received treatment from the team physio and continued batting, but his discomfort was evident as he hobbled between the wickets.

Vice-captain Ollie Pope expressed hope that Stokes would recover for the second day, emphasizing the importance of managing his workload given the crucial Tests ahead.

"Fingers crossed he can do something magic and come back strong," Pope stated after the day's play. "I've not seen him since, so fingers crossed there's nothing too serious. But clearly we've got a big Test over the next four days and we've got a big two [at Old Trafford and The Oval] coming up as well, so it is important to try and manage him."

Pope also acknowledged his role in ensuring Stokes does not push himself beyond his limits, considering the injury. He added, "We'll see how he pulls up, but for me, that is partially one of my roles, to make sure that he doesn't push himself to a ridiculous place with whatever he's dealing with at the moment. I'm sure the physios, the medics will work with him to lay out a plan and then I'll help push him in the right direction."

Any absence of Stokes would be a significant blow for England, especially given his recent increase in bowling after recovering from surgeries. In the previous Test at Leeds, Stokes bowled 35 overs, taking five wickets across both innings.