A second surgery on broken index finger likely to rule Ben Stokes out of the Ashes

Star England all-rounder Ben Stokes has undergone a second surgery on his broken index finger that is likely to rule him out of the Ashes, according to a report. Stokes, who has been on indefinite leave since pulling out of the home Test series against India, initially underwent surgery four months ago after he picked up the injury on his left index finger while playing in the IPL for Rajasthan Royals.

"England all-rounder Ben Stokes has undergone a second operation on Monday 4th October to address ongoing issues with the finger that he injured in the IPL in April.  Stokes had two screws and scar tissue removed from the index finger of his left hand."

"He will now undergo an intensive period of rehabilitation for the next four weeks under the supervision of the ECB's medical team," an ECB media release said.

On Wednesday (October 6), Stokes posted a photo on his Instagram along with his wife Clare with his left index finger bandaged. Stokes attempted a return to action this summer, playing for Durham in the T20 Blast in June and was also picked for the ODI series against Pakistan in July. The series was marred by England's first squad forced into isolation following a COVID-19 outbreak.

Stokes led a second-string side that featured nine uncapped players and guided England to a 3-0 series win. However, he required a painkilling injection throughout the series. He has not played in any form of cricket since July 26.

Stokes was then unavailable for selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the UAE.