Jos Butler Comments on Root and Stokes Champions Trophy 2025 Selection

Updated At: 2024/11/19

Jos Butler expressed that Ben Stokes and Joe Root are not assured spots in England's squad for the Champions Trophy but remains hopeful about their continued interest in white-ball cricket. While their return isn't guaranteed, Butler acknowledged their value to the team and encouraged them to keep white-ball ambitions alive. Their involvement could bolster England’s chances, but decisions will depend on form and the team's overall balance.

Ben Stokes and Joe Root have not featured in England’s ODI setup since the team’s disappointing World Cup campaign in 2023. With the Champions Trophy now just three months away, their potential return remains uncertain, leaving questions about how England will shape their squad as they prepare for the upcoming tournament.

Ben Stokes has mentioned that he would "definitely say yes" if Brendon McCullum, set to lead England's white-ball team from January, invited him back. However, he also noted that he wouldn’t be overly upset if the opportunity didn’t arise, suggesting he’s open to the idea but not reliant on it for his career satisfaction.

In August, England selector Luke Wright stated that there was "no reason" why Joe Root couldn't be included in a major tournament, despite Root not publicly expressing his own wish to return to the format. Wright's comment highlighted the potential for Root's involvement, though the player himself has yet to address his ambitions for a white-ball comeback.

England white-ball skipper Jos Butler said, “ I don't know exactly. Obviously Brendon McCullum is coming in full-time and he'll be in touch with the guys."

He added, “ It's conversations for the next few weeks with the guys in charge. 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."

England's white-ball tour to India in January will feature three ODIs, marking the only 50-over matches they will play before the Champions Trophy. This tour serves as a crucial preparation for the tournament, providing the team with an opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and form ahead of the competition, which begins just a few months later. Cricket betting tips experts will be closely watching this series to assess England's form and potential in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Butler Weighs in on Root and Stokes Champions Trophy Availability

Joe Root is widely regarded as one of England's top ODI batters, having scored over 6,500 runs and 16 centuries in 171 matches since 2013. However, his recent form has been inconsistent, averaging just 22.94 in 20 matches since July 2021. Root’s last ODI century came during the 2019 World Cup, highlighting his struggle in the format over the past few years.

Ben Stokes has featured in only 19 ODIs over the past five years but has maintained a solid average of 43.38. During the 2023 World Cup, he was particularly impressive, amassing 539 runs at an average of 59.88, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level despite limited appearances in the 50-over format in recent years.

Skipper Butler said, “ I can't speak for them individually but I hope they have white-ball aspirations. They're two great players. Naturally the teams will become closer in terms of personnel now the overall messaging will be coming from one man who is in charge of England cricket now. The guys who play all three formats, they won't feel it's red or white as much anymore.”

He further said, “ Maybe you'll see the same faces and the same guy in charge, no matter what colour the ball is. It's certainly going to give more consistency."

Jos Butler Comments on Root and Stokes Champions Trophy 2025 Selection

Butler Weighs in on Root and Stokes Champions Trophy Availability

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