England's crushing defeat at the hands of New Zealand at The Oval has laid bare the team's reliance on their talismanic captain, Ben Stokes. The margin of defeat was a stark reminder of the impact Stokes' absence can have on the team's fortunes. According to Stuart Broad, the England pace bowler, the hammering at The Oval is a clear indication of how much the team needs Stokes, both on and off the field.
Broad's assessment of the situation is telling, as it highlights the significant contribution Stokes makes to the team. The England captain's absence was deeply felt, and Broad believes that Stokes will be 'hurt' by the knowledge that his absence played a substantial role in the heavy defeat. The Oval drubbing serves as a wake-up call for England, underscoring the need for Stokes' leadership and all-round skills to bolster their chances of success.