England’s former white-ball captain Eoin Morgan has urged the team to recall Joe Root and Ben Stokes for next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Morgan believes that the experienced duo’s presence is crucial for England’s success in the tournament.
Root and Stokes last played ODIs at the 2023 World Cup, where England suffered a disappointing group-stage exit. While they will not feature in the upcoming series against West Indies, England have indicated that they remain in contention for selection.
Morgan emphasized the importance of Root and Stokes’ experience and leadership qualities. He pointed out that England’s recent series defeat against Australia exposed the team’s lack of depth in the absence of key players.
“When you put them up against a side that didn’t have Archer, Wood, Stokes, Root, and Buttler, that’s half your England team,” Morgan said. “The younger players have found a template, but they need to continue with that and look ahead to the Champions Trophy.”
Morgan believes that the West Indies series will provide an opportunity for younger players to prove themselves, but he expects McCullum to recall the senior players when he takes over as white-ball coach in January.
“The younger players have an opportunity in front of them, but that opportunity can be quickly taken away when those big names come back,” Morgan said. “Stokes and Root are in the best team, and they need to be there for the Champions Trophy.”
England have only six more ODIs before the Champions Trophy, and Morgan believes that the team must use this time wisely to find the best possible combination.
