Ben Stokes set for bigger role with the bat in T20 World Cup

England captain Jos Buttler wants Ben Stokes to play a more influential role with the bat in order to fully harness the capabilities of the star all-rounder. While Stokes is set to move up the order, possibly at No.4 in England’s T20 World Cup team as the white-ball captain Buttler insisted that he is wasted down the order as a finisher, England are still unsure about Livingstone’s availabilty for the marquee event. The choice for the other opener’s slot is between Phil Salt and Alex Hales, both of whom had a crack at the top of the order in the T20Is against Pakistan, but the England captain kept his cards close to his chest.

“We have great options at the top of the order with guys in really good form in Pakistan. They’re both excellent options. Whoever I partner with will have a great go at it,” Buttler said.