ECB Chief Open to Stokes Reversing Retirement for Ashes
Rob Key says he would welcome a Ben Stokes comeback for the 2027 Ashes, though no formal talks have taken place.
England and Wales Cricket Board chief Rob Key has indicated he would embrace a Ben Stokes return for the 2027 Ashes, following the all-rounder's recent international retirement. Speaking to Sky Sports, Key admitted a reversal would make for a fantastic narrative, adding that he would not be taken aback if Stokes changed his mind. "Anything's possible with Ben," Key remarked, though he confirmed no formal conversations about a comeback have occurred yet.
Stokes stepped away from international duty last month, a decision that came on the heels of a nightclub controversy. The 34-year-old previously retired from one-day internationals in 2022 but made a u-turn a year later to feature in the 2023 World Cup in India. He also played a key role in England's 2019 World Cup triumph, so a similar reversal would not be without precedent.
Against Australia in Ashes Tests, Stokes has claimed 56 wickets at an average of 35.25 and scored 1,746 runs at 32.94. The 2027 Ashes are scheduled to take place in England from June 18 to August 2, leaving ample time for Stokes to rethink his decision.