Sam Curran says he would welcome the opportunity to step into the void left by Ben Stokes as England look for a new seam-bowling all-rounder following the former Test captain’s retirement.
Curran, who has not played Test cricket since England’s home series against India in August 2021, said representing his country remains his biggest motivation and that he is ready if called upon.
When asked if he would embrace the chance to replace Stokes, the 28-year-old told BBC Sport:
“Yeah, of course.
“But it’s one of those things where I just want to try to perform my best and whenever the time comes they decide whoever is going to replace Stokesy – playing for England is amazing and I’m a competitive guy.
“When I’ve got a ball or bat in my hand I just try to do my best, so we’ll see what happens.”
Since his last Test appearance, Curran has featured exclusively in England’s white-ball squads, establishing himself as a key player in limited-overs cricket.
He is currently part of England’s squad for the ongoing five-match Twenty20 series against India and has also been selected for the three-match One-Day International series later this month.
Curran’s comments come as England begin planning for life after Stokes, whose retirement has left a significant gap in the Test side, particularly in the all-rounder’s role.
England continue their T20 series against India with the second match at Old Trafford on Saturday, where Curran will have another opportunity to strengthen his case for a return to the Test arena.
