Not only does a fit and healthy Stokes balance the team with bat and ball, the legacy of his previous performances - not least his 'miracle of Headingley' against the Australians in 2019 - carries an aura that can raise the spirits of his team-mates and sow seeds of doubt in their opponents. Canada have been touted as a potential dark horse in this year's event, but they face a tough opening assignment against hosts Germany, who will be roared on by a capacity crowd in Jena. "He's an unbelievable athlete and we can't wait to unleash him on the world stage."© 2021 Sky UKFootball When the first Test gets under way in Brisbane on December 8, Stokes will not have played competitive cricket for almost five months.