Ben Stokes remains a potential candidate for a return to England’s white-ball team, with Harry Brook, the new limited-overs captain, suggesting that it would be foolish to ignore the possibility of his inclusion. Stokes, who captains the England Test team, has not played in an ODI since the 2023 World Cup, as he has focused on Test cricket and dealt with various injuries. Brook, however, is open to the idea of a white-ball return for Stokes, provided the demanding schedule allows for it.
Brook acknowledged the challenges posed by England’s packed cricket calendar but highlighted Stokes’ exceptional skill and value to the team. “With the schedule, he’s not going to be available all the time, but he’s one of the best players in the world, and we’d be stupid to turn a blind eye to him,” Brook said. Stokes’ experience and ability in limited-overs cricket make him an asset, even if his appearances would be sporadic.
In addition to Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, who has not played for England since the 2023 T20 World Cup, is also in contention for a return to the limited-overs side. Brook spoke highly of Bairstow’s ability to put pressure on the world’s best bowlers, noting that his skill set still makes him a viable candidate for selection. “There’s no reason why he can’t get selected again,” Brook said, reaffirming the importance of Bairstow’s presence in England’s white-ball plans.
Brook’s own schedule as captain is likely to require careful management, especially given that his appointment marks a departure from the norm. His predecessors, Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler, were both out of the Test setup during their tenures as limited-overs captains. Brook, however, will be balancing the responsibilities of leading the limited-overs team while still being involved in Test cricket. He acknowledged the challenge of managing his time but expressed excitement about the forthcoming international commitments, including a busy winter schedule featuring a white-ball tour of New Zealand, the Ashes series, and trips to Sri Lanka and India for bilateral series. The T20 World Cup will also be a key focus.
Brook hinted that, despite the intense calendar, he may take a break during England’s brief tour of Ireland in September but did not rule out playing. “I might want to play because it’s my first year, and I might want to keep around the lads and keep them in high spirits,” he said. However, if rest becomes necessary, it could mean stepping away from franchise cricket for a time.
In preparation for his international commitments, Brook withdrew from his £590,000 contract with the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League to focus on playing for England. He acknowledged the consequences of his decision, including the possibility of a two-year ban due to the IPL’s rules on withdrawals. “That’s the rules, so if I do get banned, fair play,” Brook said, adding that his commitment to representing England outweighed any financial incentives. “I just want to play cricket for England, represent my country, and hopefully have a big impact on the side moving forward,” he added.
Brook has made it clear that he plans to stay true to his natural style of play as captain, aiming to inspire his teammates to play aggressive and enjoyable cricket. “I’m going to be myself, as much as I possibly can be. Be relaxed, be calm, try to have a lot of fun and enjoy it. If you’re playing cricket for England, we’re all living that dream,” he said. As he prepares for his first series as captain, Brook remains focused on creating a positive environment for his team, one in which everyone is excited to contribute to England’s success.
