Ben Stokes pulls out of the Hundred and T20 series to focus on Test cricket

Ben Stokes has pulled out of the Hundred as well as the forthcoming T20 series against South Africa as he prioritises Test cricket over white-ball competitions following his appointment as England captain.

Stokes made two appearances for Northern Superchargers last summer and was expected to play for them again in the competition’s second season, but will instead rest and prepare for the three Tests against South Africa in August and September.

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The squads for the T20 and ODI series against South Africa were released on Friday, with Jonny Bairstow in both groups and Joe Root, like Stokes, scheduled