Ben Stokes has firmly denied reports linking him with an Ashes comeback, calling the story 'completely misleading' with 'no truth to the Ashes story whatsoever.'.
Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has dismissed reports suggesting that he could return to international cricket for the 2027 Ashes series against Australia. The 35-year-old took to social media to refute the claims after a report suggested that he could consider a comeback under certain circumstances.
According to The i Paper, Stokes has made himself available for the majority of Durham's County Championship campaign in 2027, committing to play 10 matches for his boyhood club. The report also suggested that the all-rounder could remain open to an England return for the Ashes, provided certain conditions were met.
However, Stokes was quick to reject the speculation. Responding to the publication's post on X, the former England captain criticised the report's headline and denied the claims surrounding his potential international comeback.
Stokes wrote, "Please don’t waste your £1 to read this…it’s a completely misleading headline and no truth to the Ashes story what so ever!"
Ben Stokes commits to Durham's County Championship campaign
Stokes' reported commitment to Durham comes after he played a significant role in helping the club secure promotion from Division Two last season. Winning the County Championship with his boyhood club is understood to be a priority for the all-rounder as he prepares for the 2027 season.
His decision to play 10 Championship matches would also limit his availability for franchise cricket. According to the report, Stokes has no plans to participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Indian Premier League (IPL) or The Hundred next year.
His IPL status has also been a subject of discussion after he skipped the 2024 auction. Under the rules previously introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), overseas players who withdraw after being picked at an auction can face a two-year exclusion from the tournament. However, his eligibility for the 2027 edition remains unclear.
Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket during England's Test series against New Zealand in June. His central contract was subsequently cancelled, marking a significant change in his relationship with the national team.
Could Ben Stokes return for the 2027 Ashes?
The possibility of Stokes returning for the Ashes had emerged because of his decision to commit to a substantial block of red-ball cricket with Durham. The report suggested that he could consider an approach from England if the circumstances were right, particularly if it came from Joe Root, his former teammate and close friend.
However, Stokes' public response has made it clear that the reported Ashes comeback should not be treated as a confirmed possibility.