Rob Key, England’s director of cricket, has left open the possibility of Ben Stokes returning to the national team for next summer’s Ashes series, despite the all-rounder’s recent retirement from international cricket. Stokes ended his international career in June but has since resumed playing for Durham and attracted interest from Australia’s Big Bash League. Speculation remains about whether the 36-year-old could stage a comeback against Australia, England’s traditional rival.

At a media event at Lord’s, Key refused to rule out Stokes’ return, describing it as a “brilliant story” if it happened. While Stokes has made no formal contact regarding a comeback and maintains that he is “done,” Key acknowledged that “anything is possible with Ben.” The potential return now comes under a revamped leadership structure, with Stephen Fleming appointed as England’s new Test head coach and Joe Root reappointed as Test captain. Fleming officially joined the role in August, with his first Test in charge likely to be in South Africa later this year, while Root, who stepped down from captaincy in 2022, has resumed the position and is viewed as close to Stokes.

Stokes and Fleming share a connection through the Indian Premier League, where Stokes was signed by Fleming’s Chennai Super Kings franchise in 2023. Although injury limited Stokes’ appearances, his substantial signing fee indicated Fleming’s regard for him. Key noted that Fleming had not yet discussed Stokes’ potential return but called any future conversation “a great story.”

Root’s role could be pivotal in any decision by Stokes to return. The two have known each other since childhood and share a close bond. Root, who deputised effectively for Stokes during this summer’s Test against New Zealand, has expressed enthusiasm about leading the side again. Key emphasized the complementary nature of the new leadership partnership: Root providing experience and stability, and Fleming bringing coaching expertise gained over years with franchises such as Chennai Super Kings and Southern Brave.

Key also addressed rumours of tension following Stokes’ mid-match retirement announcement in Nottingham, which came after a team suspension for breaching curfew. He dismissed suggestions of any residual discord, stating there had been no hard feelings.

While a return for England’s upcoming winter tour of South Africa seems unlikely due to Stokes’ family commitments, next May’s home Test against Bangladesh is seen as the most opportune moment ahead of the Ashes series. Observers note Stokes’ history of reversals on retirement decisions, having returned to international limited-overs cricket after declaring his ODI retirement in 2022 and playing a decisive innings in the 2022 T20 World Cup final.

Australian coach Andrew McDonald highlighted the narrative appeal of a Stokes return, suggesting it would generate significant hype for the Ashes and noting that Stokes still possesses much to offer. Any potential comeback will likely depend on discussions between Stokes, Fleming, and Root as England prepares for a new chapter following the departure of former coach Brendon McCullum.