England have been handed a boost ahead of their game with South Africa after Ben Stokes declared himself fit for the fixture in Mumbai.
Prior to the recent series with New Zealand, Stokes had spent more than a year away from the 50-over format before making a U-turn on his decision.
Having scored the highest-ever one-day international total for England versus the Black Caps, making 182, the 32-year-old was in line to start against the same opponents in the opening match of the 2023 Cricket World Cup.
However, a hip injury sustained in the gym has led to Stokes sitting out the first three fixtures, with England losing to New Zealand and Afghanistan either side of a win over Bangladesh.
Given the manner of the loss to Afghanistan, changes are expected to be made to the starting XI for what is a crucial encounter against the Proteas.
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While Stokes must first come through two more training sessions, he has acknowledged that he has put himself in contention to be recalled to the team.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Stokes said: "A frustrating little niggle to get before the tournament starts, but I have worked very hard to get back to where I am and making myself ready to be available for selection.
"We have had a few days off since the last game and the first training session here in Mumbai. I will give it a good push but, yes, I think everything is pretty good. I am in a good place."
The assumption is that Harry Brook's place at number four is most at risk, but he has made 25, 20 and 66 in his three knocks of the tournament so far.
Depending on the pitch, either Chris Woakes or Sam Curran may miss out due to their ineffectiveness with the ball versus Afghanistan, with the spin of all-rounder Liam Livingstone proving a valuable alternative.
England find themselves trailing to South Africa by two points and ideally need a response with Sri Lanka, India and Australia representing their next three fixtures.
Darren Plant
