England national selector Marcus North has indicated that Sam Curran is being groomed to succeed Ben Stokes as the team’s premier all-rounder, though the 28-year-old’s involvement in the ongoing series against Pakistan remains uncertain due to fitness issues.

North announced a 16-man squad for the first two Test matches against Pakistan, with Curran currently sidelined after experiencing muscle soreness. The selector emphasized that the England medical and support staff are closely monitoring Curran’s condition, aiming to have him available for the third Test at Edgbaston later this month.

“He is someone our backroom staff and medical team will be working with to make sure he becomes an option in the third Test,” North said. “He is someone we really value highly and we see playing a role in the future for us.”

Curran’s recent stint with the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League provided an opportunity for interaction with England’s new head coach Stephen Fleming, who, despite officially taking over after the Pakistan series, contributed to the selection process. Fleming’s assessment reportedly factored into the decision to continue backing Curran as a key player for England going forward.

In addition to Curran’s potential return, the team has recalled batsmen Dan Lawrence and Jordan Cox, as well as fast bowler Sam Cook, indicating a desire to strengthen the squad’s depth for the upcoming matches.

England’s current approach signals a transitional phase as they seek to establish a reliable all-rounder in the aftermath of Stokes’ tenure, with Curran viewed as a central figure in the side’s longer-term plans. The final decision on his availability will depend on his recovery and fitness ahead of the Edgbaston Test.