England captain Ben Stokes walked off retired hurt on Day 3 of the fourth Test against India in Manchester. It sparked immediate concern among fans.
The all-rounder had been playing a crucial knock alongside Joe Root when he suddenly left the field, grimacing and clutching the back of his leg. Stokes had undergone hamstring surgery earlier this year and returned to full fitness only in May.
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The timing of his exit - during a phase in England's push for a match-winning lead only added to the tension.
Ricky Ponting wonders if it's just cramp or a serious hamstring injury
Ricky Ponting - on air when the incident unfolded, was not convinced it was just a minor issue. The former Australia captain speculated whether it could be something more serious than just cramp.
"Keep the camera on him - he almost couldn't get up the steps. Let's hope it is cramp only. He's been incredibly good in the first innings with the ball, picked up his first five-for in eight years in Test cricket - something you don't see every day," Ponting said during commentary.
ECB confirms reason for Stokes' retired hurt
A short while later, the England team clarified that Stokes was suffering from cramp in his left leg. The skipper had looked uncomfortable after playing a reverse sweep off Washington Sundar and appeared to struggle further while taking a single off Mohammed Siraj.
Update from the ECB - Ben Stokes is suffering cramp in his left leg https://t.co/WcykKh058T
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) July 25, 2025
Though he managed to walk back unaided, the situation remains one to watch -- especially considering Stokes's physical workload throughout the series. He has bowled 129 overs -- his most ever in a series -- and taken 16 wickets at an average under 25.
Before retiring hurt, Stokes scored 66 - his best knock of the series and shared a 142-run stand with Joe Root to help England stretch their lead. England - already ahead 2-1 in the series, can seal it in Manchester with a win.