England's World Cup Winning Captain Backs Joe Root And Ben Stokes To Play Champions Trophy 2025

Joe Root (L) and Ben Stokes (R) [Source: @CricCrazyJohns and @JoeRoot66Fan/X.com]

Former England cricketer Eoin Morgan recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with a particular focus on England’s potential squad. The tournament, scheduled to take place in Pakistan, is one of the most anticipated events in the cricketing calendar, and teams like India, Australia, and England are among the favorites to win. 

Morgan, known for leading England to their historic World Cup victory in 2019, weighed in on the participation of two key players—Ben Stokes and Joe Root. Both players last appeared in the ODI format during the 2023 World Cup, where England’s campaign ended earlier than expected. 

Morgan emphasized that Stokes and Root’s inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad could be crucial for England’s success. He stressed that for England to have the best chance of winning the tournament, Stokes and Root must be part of the team. However, the former captain also acknowledged the growing talent in England’s younger players. The squad has been experimenting with fresh faces, particularly in a recent series against Australia, which they lost 2-3. 

"Ben Stokes has already said that he hasn't had the call yet from Baz as to whether he will play or not. If that call comes, obviously he would love to play. In my eyes, they've got to come into a major world tournament and look to win it, and that means trying to find the best team - and for me, Stokes and Root are in that best team,” Morgan said at the launch of the International Masters League in Mumbai.

Despite the defeat, Morgan believes the younger generation showed promise. 

"At the moment, I'm happy to back the younger players, In the recent series against Australia, they found a template. Australia, you have to commend how good they are at the moment in all formats of the game,” he said, while also acknowledging Australia’s strong current form. 

Champions Trophy 2025 Final In Doubt

Morgan’s comments come at a time when discussions around the Champions Trophy are heating up, particularly around where the tournament will be held and the participation of India. Due to long-standing political tensions, India and Pakistan haven’t played a bilateral series in over a decade. 

While Pakistan are set to host the tournament, speculation remains about whether India will travel to Pakistan or opt to play their games in the UAE. The tournament’s final is reportedly planned for Lahore, but there is a possibility of it being shifted to Dubai, especially if India qualifies for the final. 

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