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Eoin Morgan, a pivotal figure in England’s white-ball revolution after their early exit from the 2015 World Cup, has highlighted the need for experience in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Following England’s disappointing sixth-place finish in the 2023 World Cup, Morgan believes the inclusion of veteran players is essential as the team looks to reclaim its status as a cricketing powerhouse.
Young talent and lessons learned
Despite the challenges, England have given opportunities to several youngsters in recent series. Harry Brook recently led the team against Australia in the absence of the injured Jos Buttler, but the team lost the five-match series 2-3. Nevertheless, there were positive takeaways that the management hopes to build on as they prepare for the Champions Trophy. A similar squad has been announced for the upcoming Caribbean tour, which is critical for fine-tuning the team’s performance ahead of the tournament.
Brendon McCullum’s new era
The Champions Trophy will mark Brendon McCullum’s first significant white-ball assignment after taking over from interim coach Marcus Trescothick. As the team navigates this transition, Morgan’s insights could prove invaluable in shaping the squad.
Eoin Morgan appeals for the inclusion of two veteran stars for Champions Trophy 2025
Morgan has specifically named Ben Stokes and Joe Root as crucial players who should be included in the England squad for the Champions Trophy. Stokes, who retired from ODIs in 2022, has recently expressed his openness to a comeback in the format. His leadership and experience would be a significant asset for the team.
Also READ: Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi predicts his four semifinalists of Champions Trophy 2025
Meanwhile, Root has been a stalwart in the ODI setup but has not featured in recent matches, with the management prioritizing his Test commitments. Root last played during the 2023 World Cup in India and has been sidelined from England’s recent 50-over campaigns.
Morgan emphasized the uncertainty surrounding Stokes’ potential return to the England ODI squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, noting that Stokes has not yet been contacted by head coach McCullum regarding his inclusion. Morgan expresses that if Stokes receives the call to play, he would be eager to return, highlighting the importance of having experienced players like Stokes and Root in the team. He argues that to succeed in a major tournament, England must prioritize assembling the strongest possible team, which, in his view, includes these two veteran stars who have proven their worth in high-pressure situations.
“Ben Stokes has already said that he hasn’t had the call yet from Baz as to whether he will play or not. If that call comes, obviously, he would love to play. In my eyes, they’ve got to come into a major world tournament and look to win it, and that means trying to find the best team – and for me, Stokes and Root are in that best team,” said Morgan as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
