The 24-year-old is now an indispensable member of the international set-up and has sealed his place as the team’s premier all-rounder.
England’s upcoming Test match against Sri Lanka starting 27 May will be the third time Stokes has played for his country at Durham, the first was an ODI fixture against India in 2011 although he did not bat or bowl and the second being England’s one-day victory over New Zealand in 2015 where he took three wickets.
Since making his Test debut at the age of 22, Stokes has contributed to a number of match-winning performances including a man of the match display against New Zealand at Lord’s where he scored 92 from 94 balls.
He also produced one of the most memorable displays of recent times during the winter tour of South Africa, scoring 258 from just 198 balls in the second fastest Test double century of all time, and Stokes is looking forward to reproducing those performances on home turf.
“I’m really looking forward to the test match at Durham as it will hopefully be my 25th test cap if I am picked for the previous fixture at Headingley.”
Stokes said. “It would be brilliant to reach that milestone, especially at Emirates Riverside.
“It’s great that we’re playing at Durham. I’m really excited for this one.
“This time it’s a test match as well, which adds special value. I can’t wait to play in front of the Durham fans.”
Stokes was a key part of England’s run to the final at the ICC World Twenty20 in India but believes the current England’s Test side are fully capable of beating any opposition with the red ball.
“I will have an advantage as I’m used to the pitch and the conditions,” the all-rounder added. “The game will be extra special for me as it’s my home ground and where I have grown up playing cricket.
“I think Durham is undervalued as a ground, it would be nice to see a lot more games here. The club has done a lot to try and enhance the stadium and make it more appealing for the international format.
“The floodlights have been put in now so I think that has helped. It would be great to see more internationals at the Riverside as the crowds are excellent and they love their cricket. The atmosphere is always great.
“England are playing very good cricket in terms of the Test team and we’re coming off the back of a very positive summer with the red ball.
“If we can continue the form that we are showing it shouldn’t matter who we’re facing, we will be very confident we can continue the tradition of winning the Durham Test match.
“Regardless who Sri Lanka have in their team, England should be able to produce a winning performance at the Emirates Riverside.”
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