Sam Curran's Test Comeback Hangs in the Balance Amid Fitness Concerns

Sam Curran's hopes for a Test cricket comeback are currently in limbo as he has been left out of England's squad for the Pakistan series due to fitness issues. Selector Marcus North has indicated that rushing Curran back would be unwise, given his ongoing minor injuries. The medical team will monitor him closely, with the possibility of him being available for the third Test. Curran's all-round capabilities make him a key player of interest following Ben Stokes' retirement. This article delves into Curran's situation and what it means for England's cricketing future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 6, 2026, 23:38 IST

Sam Curran's Future in Test Cricket Uncertain

London [UK], August 6: Sam Curran is still in the running for a return to Test cricket, but he has been excluded from England's squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan due to ongoing fitness issues.

On Thursday, England selector Marcus North confirmed that Curran would not participate in the first two Tests against Pakistan, emphasizing that it would be inappropriate to rush the all-rounder back into action while he is dealing with minor injuries after a taxing summer.

North mentioned that the medical team will keep a close watch on Curran in the coming weeks, aiming to have him fit for the third Test, highlighting the team's belief in his potential as a vital all-rounder moving forward.

Curran was unable to play in IPL 2026 due to a groin injury and had initially returned as a specialist batter in the T20 Blast.

“It would be unfair to include him in these first two Tests. Our medical staff will be collaborating with him in the upcoming weeks to ensure he is a viable option for the third Test. We hold him in high regard and see him playing a significant role in the future,” North stated, according to reports.

“Sam has had a demanding summer, participating in a lot of cricket while managing a few minor injuries, which is common for bowlers. However, given his current condition—having missed a game in the Hundred—we don’t believe he is physically ready yet,” he added.

Despite being considered for selection in the absence of Ben Stokes, England decided against recalling Curran, as he was not deemed fit enough for a return to Test cricket after a season plagued by injuries.

Nonetheless, North acknowledged that Curran's all-round skills make him a player of interest following Stokes' retirement, with the left-handed player potentially being called back for the third Test against Pakistan, which is set to begin on September 9.

“With Ben Stokes retiring, it’s evident that he provided a unique balance to our team. Sam Curran is definitely someone we are keen on,” he remarked.

Curran made his Test debut at just 19 years old and has played 24 matches from 2018 to 2021, but he has since stepped back from red-ball cricket, focusing primarily on white-ball formats over the last five years.