Ben Stokes' absence opens Ashes door for Craig Overton, says David Lloyd

"I should think that England, particularly in the first game, will want a long batting line-up and that puts Overton into the frame."

By David Lloyd, Cricket Expert & Columnist @BumbleCricket

David Lloyd says Ben Stokes' absence from England's Ashes squad is a great opportunity for Somerset all-rounder Craig Overton

David Lloyd believes Ben Stokes' likely absence from England's Ashes squad is a great opportunity for Somerset all-rounder Craig Overton.

The uncapped 23-year-old is vying with Nottinghamshire's Jake Ball for the spot as fourth seamer in the first Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane from November 23.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Lloyd said: "It [Stokes' absence] is a massive loss but I'd look at it the other way.

Image: Overton has a great opportunity to impress for England in the Ashes, according to Lloyd

"It's an opportunity for somebody else and it gives Overton, who might have been thinking he was just going out to carry some drinks and get some experience, a great opportunity.

"I should think that England, particularly in the first game, will want a long batting line-up and that puts Overton into the frame. They will also probably play only one spinner, Moeen Ali, if he's fit."

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Lloyd is also confident that Tom Curran will make an impression after the Surrey bowler was called up to replace the injured Steven Finn on Tuesday.

Surrey seamer Tom Curran says he is 'delighted' following his call-up to England's Ashes squad to replace injured bowler Steven Finn

Bumble said: "I think he will really love that challenge, he looks a good cricketer to me.

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"He looks clever, he comes from a great combative cricketing background. I hope he doesn't get it in his mind that he is making the numbers up."

With the possibility of one or two new faces in the side, Lloyd was asked whether there was any chance of England being wound up by Australian verbals.

"The thing I would say from Australia, is that we've heard it all before. It's like a long-playing record. Look in the mirror, get your own house in order!

Sky Sports' David Lloyd says Craig Overton could get a chance to shine in the absence of Ben Stokes and warns England's cricketers to ignore the mind games ahead of the Ashes

"You've got to embrace it. The thing they like is that they will give it to you. They love it if you give it back, just give them a little back.

"They like it if you stand up to them and you know what they say every time? 'Good on ya mate' and they'll buy you a beer."

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