England men’s team managing director Rob Key has not ruled out the possibility of Ben Stokes returning to international cricket before next year’s Ashes, saying “anything is possible with Ben.”Stokes stepped down as England’s Test captain and retired from international cricket after England lost the Test series to New Zealand 2-1 in June. That defeat came after a 4-1 Ashes series loss to Australia during the previous winter.The 35-year-old had also been ruled out of the second Test against New Zealand after breaching a midnight curfew while celebrating England’s victory in the opening Test.There was speculation after the incident that Stokes was unhappy with the way he had been treated by England’s management. On Thursday, England brought back Joe Root as Test captain and appointed Stephen Fleming as Brendon McCullum‘s replacement as Test head coach.Asked if Stokes could return in time for next year’s Ashes, Key told Sky Sports News: “It would be a brilliant story if he does.”Speaking after Fleming’s appointment, Key said Stokes had given no indication that he wanted to return but admitted he would not be surprised if that changed.“It would be a brilliant story if he does,” Key told Sky Sports News. “He hasn’t [indicated a change of heart], but I wouldn’t be surprised. Anything is possible with Ben.”When asked if Stokes had damaged his relationship with England by announcing his retirement during the fourth day of the Trent Bridge Test, Key said: “No, not at all. Not as far as I’m concerned.”Since retiring, Stokes has focused on playing for Durham. He scored a century on his return last week in a One-Day Cup match, which was played on the opening day of The Hundred.As long as Stokes continues playing domestic cricket, discussions about a possible England comeback before the 2027 Ashes are expected to continue.
