KipperJohn wrote:Stokes isn't a 'new Botham or Flintoff' - he's an individual in his own right. He's got something about him but to heap all this debate on him is nonsense. Let's see how he develops in the various disciplines - he'll have great days, good days, bad days and terrible days.
Presumably the coaches won't be comparing his stats and such like with past players - they'll simply work with him on his game and how he plays it.
A number of players touted on CMS for a long time are now almost part of the furniture - Ballance, Root,, Stokes, Buttler etc so many posters have got their wish. Let's give them a bit of time and see how they do.
It's not beyond the realms of possibility that in a few years time they'll be the 'old guard' with all the baggage of highs and lows that the likes of Cook, Bell, Broad etc now carry!
Excellent post , KJ
But of course , it isn't in the nature of Internet discussion sites - even those frequented by all the wise and reasonable posters on here
to be patient and refrain from intense debate about a player as he develops ; so your wishes are bound to be ignored ...And that's without considering the professional media
But seriously : I'm not too bothered at the big fuss made over Stokes this week. I'd say it isn't so much a desire to set him up as the New Botham , as it is sheer delight at the sight of a young England player taking on the game with such a refreshingly attacking intent ; it's exciting .
Stokes had a good press in Australia during the Tour from Hell - and rather lost it with injuries , indiscretions and a row of ducks - so to see him back in the side and playing a blinder was always likely to inspire a lot of hype. But I do think the way he played , coming at a time when many of the fans had become disenchanted with the team , is the main factor driving the media enthusiasm. And hopefully there will be recognition that he can't always come off like that - coupled with a desire for him to continue to play with the same freedom of spirit anyway . Even if that means some failures ...after all , if his methods can inspire the rest of the team to play with positive intent , as they seemed to do at Lord's , then he may amount to more than just his own figures as an asset...
Even before this match , I thought there was reason for England supporters to regard this as a potentially exciting time , rather than just a rather unsuccessful one . The number of young players striving to make their way was always going to mean a few ups and downs ; but surely not knowing for certain just what is going to happen next is one of the charms of sport ?
Stokes - and indeed the whole Test Match - lit up Lord's last week. No guarantee the young man can do it again at Headingley , but I do hope that spirit continues to rule the game .
