England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler has indicated that star players Ben Stokes and Joe Root are not guaranteed a return to the national ODI setup for the upcoming Champions Trophy. This tournament is set to begin in just two months, and neither player has participated in ODI cricket since England’s disappointing World Cup defence in 2023.
Stokes and Root’s ODI Absence
Ben Stokes has previously stated that he would be open to returning if new white-ball coach Brendon McCullum approached him. However, he also noted, “I’m not going to be too disappointed if I don’t.” Meanwhile, Root has not publicly expressed his desire to return to the ODI format, although England selector Luke Wright mentioned that there was “no reason” why Root couldn’t jump straight into a major tournament.
Buttler commented on the situation, saying, “I don’t know exactly” about their availability for February. He acknowledged that McCullum will be in touch with both players as he takes over the white-ball side full-time.
Upcoming Matches Before the Champions Trophy
England will embark on a white-ball tour to India in January, which includes three ODIs. These matches will be the only 50-over games for the team before the Champions Trophy begins. When asked if Stokes and Root would automatically return if available, Buttler emphasized that discussions would take place in the coming weeks with those in charge of team selections.
“Buttler added: “The guys here have played really well. Some of the young players have done themselves no harm at all. There are people who aren’t here who will have aspirations to be in the white-ball side as well. It’s really exciting.”
Root’s ODI Legacy and Recent Form
Joe Root is widely regarded as one of England’s greatest ODI batters, boasting over 6,500 runs and 16 centuries in 171 matches since 2013. However, his recent form has been concerning; since July 2021, he has averaged just 22.94 in ODIs across 20 matches. His last century came during the 2019 World Cup.
Similarly, Ben Stokes has played only 19 ODIs in the past five years but has maintained a solid average of 43.38 during that period. In the recent World Cup, he scored 539 runs at an impressive average of 59.88.
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Buttler’s Aspirations for Stokes and Root
“I can’t speak for them individually but I hope they have white-ball aspirations,” Buttler remarked about Stokes and Root. “They’re two great players.” He also noted that under McCullum’s leadership, there will likely be more consistency across formats.
“Buttler added: “Naturally, the teams will become closer in terms of personnel now that the overall messaging will be coming from one man who is in charge of England cricket now.”
Series Win Against West Indies
Buttler spoke after England secured a 3-1 series win against West Indies, marking their first away series victory in over two years. He praised his team’s performance and highlighted Saqib Mahmood, who took nine wickets across four matches and was named Player of the Series after overcoming injuries.
“It’s a great piece of work,” Buttler said regarding Mahmood’s success. “He showed great skill with the ball and got the results he deserved.”
Buttler himself returned from a calf injury during this series and chose not to keep wicket to focus on his captaincy role on the field. “I’ve enjoyed it,” he said about his new responsibilities. “Change is good sometimes.”, he concluded.
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