Ben Stokes, the legendary Test captain of England, voiced his worries on the team’s demanding schedule in the upcoming months, particularly given the growing appeal of franchise cricket.
Starting on Friday, July 26, the Three Lions will play the last Test of the three-match series against the West Indies. Following this assignment, on August 21, England will welcome Sri Lanka for a three-match Test series. The England team will play its T20I series against Australia, their fiercest opponents, the day after the third Test is finished in September. Eight days later, a three-Test series in Pakistan begins after the conclusion of an ODI series against the same opponents. Jos Buttler and co. start an ODI series in Antigua three days after that tour ends, and it concludes in St Lucia eight days before the first Test match against New Zealand in Christchurch.
As there are no overseas Test matches in the first half of 2025, England will have some downtime. However, they will play five white-ball matches in India to prepare ready for the Champions Trophy in February. Four visiting teams are then hosted throughout the home season, with an ODI series in Ireland taking place concurrently with the India Test series. England is fortunate to have access to a large pool of gifted players. All-format players like Jofra Archer, who is scheduled to return to the Test arena in 2025, and Mark Wood will face challenges as they attempt to make a living playing franchise cricket.
Before overseas tours are scheduled, Ben Stokes encouraged the ECB, FTP (Future Tours Programme), and the ICC to collaborate and consult with players.
Stokes said, “I hope not,” in response to the question of whether the schedule will hinder his goals of joining the Test team. “It is a matter that requires attention. With all the franchise cricket happening at the same time, who knows what the future of international cricket may hold? It certainly needs to be examined. The terrain is ever-changing. cited the England skipper as stating, “I don’t think anyone can put their hand on their heart and say they know what cricket is going to look like in even two years.”
“I believe that some consultation would be beneficial, especially for Jos (Buttler) and me. I think we might have some nice input in that, and the FTP might see the people who are playing consulted,” he continued.
Stokes remained silent when asked if he had been consulted on the most current FTP, which runs from 2023 to 2027: “Yes and no.” Interpret that as you please.”
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Having won the first two games, England had already secured a three-match series against the West Indies. By winning the Third Test in Birmingham, they will hope to complete a rout of the Caribbean team.
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