ENG vs NZ: England's Ben Stokes says he will be fit for second Test

Christchurch (New Zealand): Captain Ben Stokes says he is completely fit to play in England's second Test against New Zealand despite pulling up as they sealed victory in the first.

England completed an eight-wicket win on day four in Christchurch, but Stokes abandoned his bowling spell three deliveries into his fifth over of the morning.

The 33-year revealed he hurt his back diving in an attempt to take a catch on the first day, according to a BBC report.

"Wear and tear is probably the best way to describe it," Stokes told the Test Match Special podcast. "I didn't want to do any more damage than I already felt in my body. I'll be fine for Wellington."

The second Test of the three-match series starts on Friday (3-30 a.m, IST).

Stokes missed four Tests with a hamstring injury sustained in August. He returned for the second Test in Pakistan in October but struggled for form.

The all-rounder had been able to play a role as a bowler during the home summer after being hampered for most of the previous year with a left knee problem, on which he had surgery in November 2023.

In Christchurch Stokes' 19.3 overs were the most he has bowled in a Test for two years, and 80 with the bat was his highest score since the last Ashes.

"I'm good," said Stokes. "It's been a pretty big week.

"I know the skill I have as a player. I go out there and try to deliver every single time. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

"The body is going to be good for this outing and ready to go in Wellington."