Ben Stokes has rubbished the news of England’s comeback, calling the Ashes narrative completely misleading

Ben Stokes has dismissed a report suggesting he could make a sensational return to England’s Test squad for the 2027 Ashes, describing the story as misleading and insisting there is no truth to the speculation. The former England captain took to social media to respond to a report which claimed his plans to play county cricket in the summer could leave the door open for an international comeback.

stokes, who retired from international cricket in June 2026plans to prioritize Durham’s County Championship campaign next season. The report suggested that his commitment to red-ball cricket could put him in a position to consider a return should England approach him ahead of their Ashes series against Australia.

However, the 35-year-old was quick to dismiss the suggestion, making his displeasure clear at how the report presented the possibility of a return.

“Please don’t waste your £1 to read this, it’s a completely misleading headline and no truth to the Ashes story!” Stokes wrote.

STOKES FOCUSED ON DURHAM

Stokes retired from international cricket during England’s Test series against New Zealand in June 2026. He has since been exploring opportunities in franchise cricket, with his boyhood county Durham at the center of his plans for next season.

The all-rounder is set to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League after signing a £264,000 contract with the Adelaide Strikers. He is also interested in playing Major League Cricket in the United States, although his primary goal is to help Durham challenge for the County Championship.

Stokes’ retirement marked the end of a remarkable England career in which he established himself as one of the country’s most influential all-rounders. He played a key role in England’s triumph in the 2019 ODI World Cup, producing a memorable unbeaten innings in the final against New Zealand. Later that year, he produced another iconic performance with his match-winning century in the third Ashes Test at Headingley.

As captain, Stokes, along with head coach Brendon McCullum, helped change England’s approach to Test cricket. The team enjoyed a memorable 3-0 Test series victory in Pakistan in 2022, creating the aggressive style that became synonymous with the Stokes-McCullum era.

ENGLAND ADJUSTING TO LIFE AFTER STOKES’ RETIREMENT

Since Stokes’ departure, England have continued to transition, with the team working under incoming head coach Stephen Fleming. Joe Root has taken over as England Test captain from Stokes as the team looks to build a squad capable of consistently competing at the highest level. The Ashes against Australia in 2027 will be among the major challenges ahead.

Stokes’ absence leaves England without one of their most experienced leaders and proven match-winners. However, his latest response makes it clear that his decision to play red-ball cricket for Durham should not be interpreted as signaling an international comeback.

For now, Stokes has firmly distanced himself from the speculation and made his position clear as England continue to reshape their Test squad following his retirement.

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