WI vs ENG 2019: Stokes is doubtful for 3rd Test

St Lucia: England all-rounder Ben Stokes is doubtful for the third and final Test of the three-match Test series against Windies. The third Test will start on Saturday.

Captain Joe Root said Stokes' 'bruised right heel' was a result of the heavy burden he carried with the ball during England's defeats in Barbados and Antigua, bowling more than 77 overs. However, he refrained himself completely dismissing reports that claimed Stokes sustained the injury while running on the beach during a fitness session.

"Whether it was before that or during that I'm not really sure," Root said on Friday. "It's down to a huge amount of workload over the first two Tests. He woke up sore with his heel."

It is believed that England would not like to put Stokes' fitness at risk. So, Sam Curran is expected to replace him in St. Lucia Test.

"As we've seen in the recent past, when he's not been around it can make a huge difference," Root said.

"Of course we want Ben fit and firing and ready to go as many times as possible, but it's so important he is able to do his job properly."

Meanwhile, paceman Mark Wood is set to return to the XI, while Jonny Bairstow will reclaim the wicketkeeping gloves from Ben Foakes. At the same time, opening batsman Keaton Jennings has been recalled after being dropped for the second Test.