‘I did probably think it was my ticket back into the Test team’- Sam Curran, taken aback after being overlooked to replace Ben Stokes

All-rounder Sam Curran of England revealed his unhappiness at not being selected for a Test return when captain Ben Stokes had a hamstring injury this past summer. The 26-year-old remains hopeful that he will have another opportunity to demonstrate his abilities on the forthcoming white-ball tour of the West Indies.

Curran, despite winning Player of the Final and Tournament and having a significant part in England’s T20 World Cup 2022 triumph in Australia. Despite his success in franchise cricket, the left-armer has found it difficult to define his role consistently in white-ball cricket for England.

To be really honest, I did believe that I would be able to rejoin the Test team after Stokesy was hurt. “I met with Keysy [Rob Key, director of cricket] a few weeks ago to gain some insight into the group’s current state and my plans for returning to the Test team,” Curran.

I only hope to receive that call: Sam Curran

The all-rounder from Surrey made his final Test appearance against India in August 2021; he did not feature in any of the 30 games that Brendon McCullum coached. Curran believes that the current setup, which looks to favor taller, faster bowlers, may be working against him because of his physical characteristics.

“Guys are being chosen for specific skills and a little bit of unknown territory because of the current configuration of the teams. It’s a fascinating one for a county player, since you have to hope that you now fit that mold. If not, you simply need to focus on winning games for your team and your counties and wait for that call to come,” he continued.

The Northampton native is still committed to establishing his value to the team in spite of the setbacks. He has a decent chance to bat higher in the order on the upcoming Caribbean tour, which might be especially advantageous given the absence of some multi-format players.

“My constant objective is to try and regain my place in the England teams, and there’s only one way to achieve that: by making runs, claiming wickets, and leading England or the franchises to victory in games.

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Without a doubt, I would adore winning the Champions Trophy or playing in an Ashes tour. I prefer to be able to verify things, so hopefully the next few months go smoothly,” he said.