Ben Stokes

In his last 9 international matches (Tests, ODIs and T20s) Stokes has scored 18 runs in 9 matches (0,5,5,4,0,4,0,0,0,0). Good for a 1.80 batting average.

Stokes has not fared much better with the ball. Over this time period Stokes has taken 10 wickets at an average of 37.50.

His numbers in his two Test matches: A batting average of 0.00 and a bowling average of 33.14 with 7 wickets taken.

For comparison, over the same time period Chris Jordan has appeared in 17 international matches with a 23.27 batting average and a 28.06 bowling average.

His numbers in his two test appearances: A batting average of 23 with a 54.60 bowling average and 5 wickets taken.

Stokes shapes up well as an all-rounder.  But boy, his numbers suck!

Chris Jordan is in the England ODI side and I don't think that is going to change.

The issue is the preference so far for Stokes in the test matches.

Now I don't think we should use ODI/T20 numbers when talking about tests.

In his 4 tests in Australia Stokes had 15 wickets at 32.80 and a batting average of 34.88 including one century. These are not bad for someone in their first 4 tests and against Australia in Australia.

Jordan was not exactly outstanding in the two tests he played against Sri Lanka. So in my mind it's entirely understandable why the selectors opted for Stokes in these first two tests.

I think the selectors will definitely have a rethink for the 3rd test and I would not be surprised if Stokes loses his place.