Michael Vaughan has labelled it “absolute nonsense” and “incredibly selfish” for England to consider selecting Ben Stokes as the white-ball captain, as officials contemplate the next steps following Jos Buttler’s resignation in February.
According to the UK Telegraph, Harry Brook is poised to take over as England’s new T20 captain, creating a choice between Brook and Stokes for the role of 50-over captain.
This consideration comes even though Stokes has not participated in any 50-over matches since the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India.
Compounding matters, the 33-year-old has a problematic injury history and is currently on the mend following hamstring surgery, making it likely he’d find it difficult to manage white-ball cricket alongside his Test commitments.
Stokes assumed the role of Test captain from Joe Root in April 2022, shortly after England’s dismal 4-0 defeat against Australia during the Ashes series.
“It’s pure nonsense to think Ben Stokes is going to play white-ball cricket,” Vaughan stated, as reported by the BBC.
“He gives absolutely everything, not just when he’s on the field for England but during training as well. He is all-or-nothing.”
“In a sense, it’s quite selfish to even contemplate his inclusion, because he will agree, being Ben Stokes. He’ll comply with whatever England requests. Just don’t ask him; let him be.”
England Test captain Ben Stokes. Getty
Stokes is set to captain England in a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge in May, followed by a five-Test series against India that commences in June.
His squad will also aim to reclaim the Ashes from Australia in a series beginning on November 21 in Perth.
“Let him focus on winning the Ashes for England,” Vaughan emphasised.
“This isn’t merely about the upcoming India series or the Ashes; I envision him leading England in the home Ashes series of 2027, and I want him to guide England to a World Test Championship final.”
“Why burden him with white-ball responsibilities?”
Michael Vaughan (right) in conversation with Harry Brook. Getty
“It’s not about adding pressure to him as he handles it better than anyone, but rather allowing him to preserve his fitness and play Test cricket for as long as possible.”
Vaughan contends that Brook, a rising star from Yorkshire with an impressive batting average of 58.48 over 24 Tests, should be appointed as captain for both T20 and ODI formats.
“Harry Brook will likely become the T20 captain. I believe an announcement is imminent, and that’s the expectation,” Vaughan expressed, citing the former England captain.
“With the next T20 World Cup just a year away, if Harry Brook is deemed fit to lead in that format, it stands to reason he should also be considered for the 50-over captaincy ahead of the 2027 World Cup.”
England has faced defeats in their last four ODI series and was swept 3-0 by India in their most recent outing.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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