The Latest Breaking News from Ben Stokes

Poor return at the crease in First Test underlines demands on stand-in skipper

What comes to mind when you think of cricket? Perhaps it’s an idyllic scene of an English village green – people sitting on deckchairs and checkered blankets tucking into a traditional cricket tea while watching mild-mannered players in sparkling whites shouting “howzat?!” every now and then?

All-rounder said he will play ‘where I’m picked to play’ and suggested time spent away from England’s touring side may be a positive

The hosts reached 22 without loss after dismissing the tourists for 236 on the opening day in Manchester.

England’s stand-in Test captain kept himself busy on his first day, and he was not short of advice at Old Trafford

Sri Lanka were eventually bowled all out for 236 on day one at Old Trafford

The tourists were bowled out for 236 after being 92 for six shortly after lunch

Players will wear black armbands throughout the First Test

England appear to have stopped looking for a replacement for Ben Stokes - at least in the short-term