Morgan Urges Inclusion of Root and Stokes for ICC Champions Trophy 2024

Former England captain Eoin Morgan advocates for the inclusion of Joe Root and Ben Stokes in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy squad. Although currently absent from upcoming ODIs against West Indies, Morgan believes their experience is crucial for England's success in the tournament set to take place in Pakistan.

In a strong endorsement, World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan has called for the inclusion of Joe Root and Ben Stokes in England's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy set to be held in Pakistan next year. Both players were last seen in action during the ICC Cricket World Cup in India and are set to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies.

Root, sidelined against Australia due to an injury, and Stokes, given a respite between Test series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, were notably absent as England fell to a 3-2 defeat against Australia. 'I'm happy to back the younger players. They found a successful template recently. Australia are superb currently in all formats, but England wasn't at full strength without Archer, Wood, Stokes, Root, and Buttler,' Morgan remarked at the International Masters League launch, as covered by ESPNcricinfo.

Stokes is awaiting a decision from coach Brendan 'Baz' McCullum regarding his participation. Morgan emphasized, 'To win a major world tournament, the best team must be fielded, and in my opinion, that includes Stokes and Root. Young players have a chance in the forthcoming series against the West Indies, but could quickly make way for seasoned names when they return.'

(With inputs from agencies.)