Sam Curran, the 26-year-old all-rounder, has expressed his disappointment at being overlooked for a Test recall despite Ben Stokes’ injury. Curran, who was named Player of the Final and Tournament in England’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2021, feels he has not been given a clear role in white-ball cricket and does not “fit the mould” of what England is looking for under Brendon McCullum.
Curran’s struggles in England’s T20 title defense in the Caribbean earlier this year, where he took three wickets at 38.33 and batted for a total of 11 balls in five matches, have not helped his cause. He has also not featured in the ODI format since December 2023.
In red-ball cricket, Curran’s last Test appearance came against India in August 2021. He believes his physical limitations, particularly his height and pace, may be working against him.
Despite his impressive record of contributing to winning causes, with 16 victories in his 24 Test caps, Curran has been unable to break into McCullum’s England team. He acknowledges that Stokes’ status as England’s senior all-rounder is a factor, but also suspects that his physical attributes are not in line with the current trend towards taller, faster bowlers.
Curran’s omission from the recent Test series against Sri Lanka was particularly disappointing for him. He had hoped to use Stokes’ injury as an opportunity to regain his place in the team.
However, England’s eight-match tour of the Caribbean offers Curran a chance to showcase his abilities. With several multi-format stars absent, he may have the opportunity to bat up the order and play a more central role.
Curran remains determined to prove his worth and earn a place in England’s Ashes squad and future Champions Trophy victory. He believes that scoring runs, taking wickets, and winning games for England or his franchises is the only way to achieve his goals.
