England must protect Stokes from burn-out, says Michael Vaughan

Michael Vaughan, the former England captain, has warned that Ben Stokes risks burn-out if England heap too many expectations onto his shoulders during the forthcoming Test tour of India. However, he also reckons that getting the ball out of Stokes’ hand in the big moments of the series will prove to be a management challenge for Alastair Cook.

Stokes was England’s outstanding player during the 1-1 series draw with Bangladesh last month, especially during the first Test at Chittagong where he almost single-handedly hauled England to a 22-run victory. His total of 103 runs including a vital second-innings 85, while his six wickets in the match featured a key spell of reverse swing in Bangladesh’s first innings as he claimed 4 for 10 to secure a priceless first-innings lead.

Throughout the two matches it was notable how Cook, a naturally conservative captain, turned to his seam bowlers in times of strife, especially given how little control he was able to exert with his spin attack. Stokes fronted up admirably with 11 wickets from 48.3 overs in the series – fewer than the first-choice spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, but more than any of the other quicks on show.

However, he appeared to be hobbling when he came out to bat in England’s second innings at Dhaka and, with five Tests to come in the space of six weeks in India, Vaughan believes that Stokes may have to be protected from himself if England are to get full value from their most precious asset.

“Stokes has got that ability to get in the opposing team’s faces with expertise,” Vaughan said during the launch of BT Sport’s cricket coverage. “Many players have tried to wind up the opposition by being forceful and …

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