Moeen Ali says Ben Stokes' injury will hurt England's team balance

The England cricket team is grappling with the significant loss of all-rounder Ben Stokes, who will miss the remainder of the summer due to a torn hamstring sustained while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. Moeen Ali, a veteran player, expressed concerns that Stokes' absence will disrupt the team's balance, as he contributed not only as a key batsman but also as a captain and bowler. Ali emphasized the difficulty of replacing a player of Stokes' caliber, noting that the team will need to strategize carefully to fill the gaps left by his departure. With Stokes sidelined, there are discussions about moving wicketkeeper Jamie Smith up the batting order from number seven to six. Ali acknowledged the challenges the team faces in adjusting their lineup, stating that the loss of Stokes affects the overall dynamics of the squad. He expressed confidence that the coaching staff would devise a plan to address the situation, but recognized the inherent difficulties in replacing such a multifaceted player. As Ollie Pope steps in as stand-in captain, Ali believes he is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities, given his experience and understanding of the game. Ali also mentioned the potential for a younger squad, particularly in the 50-over format, which could bring fresh energy to the team. Meanwhile, Moeen is focused on the upcoming finals weekend of The Hundred, where his team, Birmingham Phoenix, will compete against Southern Brave in the men's eliminator. He expressed excitement about the opportunity, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.