Intro
England managing director Rob Key believes Ben Stokes could still return from international retirement for next summer’s Ashes series.
London
England men’s cricket team Managing Director Rob Key has refused to rule out a sensational international comeback for former Test captain Ben Stokes, saying the all-rounder could still return for next summer’s home Ashes series against Australia.
Stokes, 35, retired from international cricket in June after stepping down as Test captain following England’s 2-1 series defeat to New Zealand. His decision came shortly after he was dropped for the second Test for breaching the team’s midnight curfew after England’s opening win at Lord’s.
Despite the circumstances surrounding his retirement, Key dismissed suggestions of any rift between Stokes and the England management. He said a return to international cricket would be a remarkable story and maintained that anything remains possible with the former skipper.
Key also defended England’s decision to reappoint Joe Root as Test captain after Stephen Fleming took over as the team’s red-ball coach. He explained that the appointment was made after detailed discussions with Fleming, who believed Root was the best candidate for the role.
According to Key, Root will now have the opportunity to captain England without the distractions that affected his previous tenure. He praised Root’s leadership qualities and outstanding batting performances during his first stint as captain.
Explaining why Harry Brook was overlooked despite serving as Test vice-captain and white-ball captain, Key said the selectors felt it was not the right time for the youngster to take charge of the Test side. He added that Brook remains a key part of England’s future leadership plans and has already made significant progress in limited-overs cricket.
Quote: It would be a brilliant story if he does. Anything’s possible with Ben, Rob Key said on the possibility of Ben Stokes returning for the Ashes.
One Box: Key also backed Joe Root’s appointment as Test captain, saying Harry Brook’s time to lead England in red-ball cricket will come in the future.
