After Root, Stokes calls ECB decision 'shambolic' over Headingley’s exclusion
England cricketer Ben Stokes has criticized the England and Wales Cricket Board for excluding Headingley from the 2027 Ashes schedule. Stokes and Joe Root expressed frustration over the omission of the historic venue from the upcoming series.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights the cultural and historical significance of traditional sports venues and the tension between governing bodies and players.
Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has hit out at the England and Wales Cricket Board's decision to leave Headingley out of the 2027 men's Ashes schedule, calling the move "shambolic". Stokes' comments came shortly after England's emphatic innings-and-103-run victory over Pakistan at Headingley in the first Test of their three-match series.Newly appointed Test captain Joe Root had earlier described Headingley's absence from next year's Ashes schedule as a "shame", pointing to England's outstanding record at the Leeds venue. Reacting to a social media post carrying Root's comments, Stokes said the word did not adequately describe his frustration."Shame is an understatement. Shambolic would be more appropriate. Great win though," Stokes wrote on his Instagram story.Headingley, Old Trafford left out of 2027 AshesThe ECB has selected Trent Bridge, Lord's, Edgbaston, the Rose Bowl (Utilita Bowl) and The Oval as the five venues for the 2027 men's Ashes series.
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