ENG vs NZ, World Cup 2023: Why is Ben Stokes not playing? Jos Buttler reveals

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England are up against New Zealand in the inaugural match of the ICC World Cup 2023 on Thursday (October 5). The two giants of cricket are locking horns in a repeat of the World Cup 2019 Final.

The toss is done and New Zealand have won the toss and their captain Tom Latham decided to bowl first.

As the two teams set to collide again, there will be two players who won't take any part in this match for both teams. New Zealand were set to miss Kane Williamson, who is still suffering from an injury, but during the toss, England captain Jos Buttler confirmed that ace all-rounder Ben Stokes will also mis sout this match.

Ben Stokes, who broke his ODI retirement to play in the World Cup, will not play any part in the first match against New Zealand.

England vs New Zealand, World Cup 2023: Why is Ben Stokes not playing?

Ben Stokes is not playing as the player is carrying a niggle, Jos Buttler confirmed. The all-rounder was seen training on the pitch but the English captain says it is a minor issue which keeps the star all-rounder out of action for now.

For Williamson, Tom Latham says the New Zealand batter is progressing well, but it is more of a 'day by day' approach for him. The Kiwis are also set to miss pacestar Lockie Ferguson, who has also managed to pick up an injury ahead of this match.