Ben Stokes' potential absence from the fifth India Test at The Oval has highlighted England's reliance on their star all-rounder. Chief cricket reporter Stephan Shemilt suggests that Stokes' pushing himself to the limit and the possibility of him missing the match provides a glimpse into England's worst-case scenario. His all-round abilities and leadership are crucial to the team's success, and his absence would undoubtedly weaken England's chances against a strong Indian side. The team will need to find a way to compensate for his absence, should it occur, to avoid a significant setback in the series.