World Cup 2023: Jos Buttler to try getting Ben Stokes out of ODI retirement, 'England 'still hopeful'

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Two months ahead of the World Cup 2023, England are hopeful of Ben Stokes coming out of ODI retirement to help them defend their title.

England white-ball coach Matthew Mott has revealed that captain Jos Buttler would lead the communication with the Test team skipper and try to get him out of his ODI retirement.

"Jos will probably lead the way on that communication, but Ben's pretty straight with all of us. We will see if he's keen. There has not been a clear direction on what he's going to do yet, but we are still hopeful. I've always said his bowling would be a bonus, but just look at what he brings with the bat, even in the field," Mott told Mail Sport.'

"Watching him throughout the whole Ashes series, he had such a great presence. He's done it for years when it comes to performing in one-day cricket and so he's an invaluable commodity," Mott added.

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI format in July 2022, saying that playing three crickets was "unsustainable" for him. The 32-year-old was part of England's World Cup-winning team in 2019. He has played 105 ODI matches and scored 2924 runs at an average of 38.98 and a strike rate of 95.08.

England will kick off their campaign on the opening day of the World Cup 2023 against New Zealand.