Ben Stokes rejects Ashes comeback rumours, calls report misleading

Former England captain Ben Stokes has firmly rejected reports suggesting he could make an emergency return for the Ashes series against Australia, describing the claims as misleading and insisting there is no truth to the speculation.

The 35-year-old all-rounder responded to a report by i Paper Sport that suggested he might consider returning for the Australia series if two conditions were met. Taking to social media platform X, Stokes dismissed the headline and urged fans not to spend money reading the story.

He made it clear that the claims about his potential Ashes comeback were unfounded, putting an end to renewed speculation about a return to international cricket.

Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket in June 2026, bringing an end to a distinguished career that included some of England’s most memorable performances in modern cricket. His final international appearance came in a Test match against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.

The retirement announcement had prompted questions about whether the former captain might reconsider his decision for major occasions, particularly the Ashes, one of cricket’s most fiercely contested rivalries.

Stokes remains closely associated with England’s dramatic victory over Australia in the 2019 Ashes series. His remarkable unbeaten 135 at Headingley helped England secure a stunning one-wicket win while chasing a challenging target, producing one of the most celebrated innings in Test cricket history.

He also played a crucial role in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup triumph, further cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most influential all-rounders.

The next Ashes series is scheduled to take place in England in November 2027. Stokes’ latest comments, however, suggest fans should not expect an international comeback based on the reports currently circulating.

His statement provides a clear response to the rumours and reinforces his previously announced retirement.

For England supporters hoping to see the all-rounder return for another chapter against Australia, the message is straightforward: reports of an Ashes comeback should not be treated as fact.