A fallen role model- Ben Stokes and the turmoil in English cricket

Ben Stokes (Image: @stokesy)

With the Stokes incident, the English cricket reset has taken a significant hit. It is expected to give fresh momentum to the argument that there is a drinking problem in English cricket, and Ben Stokes could be held accountable for it.

Now that the dust has settled somewhat, there is widespread speculation in the British media about whether Ben Stokes is likely to take the extreme step of retiring from all forms of cricket following the incident in the pub on Sunday night and Monday morning. If that does happen, it would be extremely unfortunate. Stokes remains one of the best in the business and, as a cricketer, is a hugely inspirational figure in world cricket. Just last year during the India series, he elevated himself to the level of the extraordinary, doing things that seemed almost superhuman. He defied pain and injury, and it was a genuine case of leading from the front.

But sport is not just about what happens on the field. It is also about life lessons, and England’s cricket captain is no ordinary individual. He cannot simply do what everyone else does, and there are certain standards of behaviour expected of Ben Stokes. While he has often been celebrated for being ‘human’, the truth is that he is not merely another member of the public. He is Ben Stokes, a role model and one of the most recognisable sporting figures in the country. He has to act and behave in a manner that is different from what may be acceptable for others and, if he does not adhere to these standards, it can be damaging for the sport in England.

Stokes has caused reputational damage to the ECB. In fact, he has placed the organisation in a difficult position and it remains to be seen whether the investigation concludes that he has brought the game into disrepute. It is also true that he is not a first-time offender. There have been incidents in the past and, while he has rightly been praised for moving forward, it is equally true that the line between what is acceptable and what is unlawful can be a very thin one. Stokes was out of line on Sunday and there could be consequences.

What I do not want to see is an emotional reaction. Accept the mistake and accept whatever punishment is imposed. To walk away from the sport would be a harsh decision and would serve little purpose. Stokes still has years of cricket left in him and much to offer English cricket. To see him leave under the cloud of controversy would not be a fitting end for one of the finest players of his era. For his fans, he ought to continue. Take a break, perhaps, but do not give up. The ECB is investigating the matter in an attempt to put things right. A Stokes retirement would do little to achieve that.

For English cricket, the reset has taken a major hit. Rob Key was fortunate to retain his position after the Ashes, and the same can be said of Brendon McCullum. This incident will give fresh momentum to the argument that there is a drinking problem within English cricket and Stokes will inevitably be held accountable for it. To be a role model is difficult. To be human and yet be viewed as superhuman is harder still. Stokes may well end up paying the price for being who he is.

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