Australia coach Andrew McDonald hopes for Ben Stokes comeback in 2027 Ashes
Australia coach Andrew McDonald has said he would like to see Ben Stokes return to Test cricket for the 2027 Ashes series. McDonald suggested such a comeback would add a compelling storyline to the rivalry between the two nations.
McDonald, who leads the Australian side, noted Stokes retired from Test cricket earlier this year following a home series defeat. Despite that decision, Stokes remains active in domestic competitions, where his performances indicate he still has the ability to contribute at a high level. McDonald also pointed to the possibility that a new England coach might be able to persuade Stokes to reconsider playing again.
The Australian coach framed a potential Stokes return as the kind of narrative that would capture attention across the Ashes. McDonald emphasised that the prospect of the all-format star rejoining England for one last series would create an irresistible subplot to the contest. He singled out the timing of the 2027 showdown as a natural moment for such a return to be staged.
Stokes' retirement from Test cricket came earlier this year after England suffered a home series defeat. Since then he has continued to participate in domestic cricket, maintaining a standard that supporters and observers have noted. Those ongoing appearances underpin McDonald’s view that Stokes remains capable of performing at the top level.
The role of a new England coach featured prominently in McDonald’s remarks as a potential factor in any reversal of Stokes’ decision. McDonald suggested that a change in England’s coaching setup could prompt renewed consideration from the former captain. He did not, however, offer any prediction about what Stokes might choose.
McDonald’s comments underline his desire to see the sport’s leading players involved in marquee encounters such as the Ashes. Stokes’ continued domestic form keeps the possibility of an England return open, and McDonald has publicly expressed hope that it might take place in 2027.
