Ben Stokes Open to White-Ball Return Under Brendon McCullum’s Leadership

England Test captain Ben Stokes has confirmed that he would welcome a return to the national white-ball cricket setup if called upon. With Brendon McCullum set to officially take over as head coach of England’s white-ball teams in January 2025, Stokes expressed his readiness to contribute under McCullum’s leadership.

McCullum, who already holds the role of Test team head coach, will assume his white-ball coaching duties in time for England’s tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan. This move will bring England’s coaching structure across all formats under one unified regime.

Speaking to Sky Sports Cricket, Stokes emphasized his satisfaction with his white-ball achievements for England but left the door open for a potential return. “I’ve played a lot of white-ball cricket for England and I’m very happy and content with what I’ve achieved in that form of the game,” Stokes said.

“If I am part of the white-ball teams’ plans going forward in any way, shape or form then great, but also I’m fine if I’m not because that would mean that someone else is coming through and doing really well.”

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Stokes stressed that he wouldn’t be disappointed if he were not included in future white-ball squads, noting that it would offer him the chance to enjoy watching other players thrive. However, he made it clear that if an opportunity arose, he would seize it. “If I get the call to come and play, then obviously it’s definitely going to be a yes,” Stokes affirmed.

The Test captain also shared that he and McCullum have not yet discussed the possibility of his involvement in the white-ball side, as their current focus remains on England’s Test team. “Me and Baz [Brendon] have not spoken about anything like that whatsoever. He’s just letting me concentrate on what I need to with the Test team, and when that time and conversation comes, we’ll see.”

Reflecting on the recent evolution of England’s white-ball squad, Stokes praised the depth of talent emerging within the team. He highlighted Jacob Bethell, an exciting prospect, as a player to watch. “We’ve seen some unbelievable talent come through – just to point out one, Jacob Bethell, who I think is going to be a superstar,” he added.

As McCullum prepares to take the helm of both England’s Test and white-ball teams, Stokes’ willingness to return, should the need arise, further strengthens England’s lineup as they look ahead to future international competitions.