Manchester, July 3: England all-rounder Sam Curran has expressed his desire to return to the Test side following the retirement of Ben Stokes, but insisted he will not burden himself with expectations as the national selectors search for a replacement ahead of next month’s series against Pakistan.
Stokes’ retirement has left England with a significant void in the Test set-up, both as captain and as the team’s premier seam-bowling all-rounder. Curran, who last played a Test match in 2021, is regarded as one of the leading candidates to fill that role.The 28-year-old, however, said his focus remains on performing whenever he gets an opportunity rather than worrying about selection.
“Of course I’d love the opportunity, but I just want to perform to the best of my ability. Whenever the time comes and the selectors decide who replaces Stokesy, playing for England is always special. I’m a competitive person and whenever I’ve got a bat or ball in my hand, I just try to do my best. We’ll see what happens,” Curran said.
The Surrey all-rounder admitted there has been considerable speculation over who will replace Stokes, but stressed that he does not want to place unnecessary pressure on himself.
“With Ben Stokes retiring, there’s naturally going to be a lot of discussion. Whoever comes in will do everything possible to make the role their own. Ben will be a huge loss for England, but I don’t want to think too much about it. My priority is simply to contribute and help England win matches. Whatever happens, happens,” he added.Curran has represented England in 24 Test matches, claiming 47 wickets and scoring 815 runs, but has featured exclusively in white-ball cricket since his last appearance in the longest format nearly five years ago.Curran, meanwhile, remains part of England’s white-ball plans. (Agencies)
