Overview
- Ben Stokes, speaking on a podcast on Tuesday, confirmed he will not reverse his shock international retirement from June and said he is definitely not returning for the 2027 Ashes.
- Stokes said he is completing his Level Three coaching qualification now and said he would "absolutely" like to coach England in the future.
- The England and Wales Cricket Board has installed Stephen Fleming as Test head coach and reappointed Joe Root as Test captain, with Marcus Trescothick stepping in as interim manager for the upcoming Pakistan tour.
- Stokes publicly questioned why vice-captain Harry Brook was overlooked for the permanent Test captaincy and warned the selection message could undermine Brook’s development.
- The changes come with a packed schedule and an immediate three-Test series starting August 19 against Pakistan that will test selection clarity, leadership stability and player welfare under the new regime.