Ben Stokes criticizes omission of Headingley from 2027 Ashes schedule

Ben Stokes and other prominent figures in English cricket have criticized the decision to exclude Headingley from the 2027 men’s Ashes schedule, describing the move as ‘shambolic’ and a ‘disgrace.’

Former England captain Joe Root called the omission a ‘shame,’ noting the team’s strong historical performance at the venue. Stokes went further, stating that ‘shame is an understatement’ and that ‘shambolic would be more appropriate.’ The decision has drawn scrutiny because Headingley is a historic ground where Stokes played a career-defining innings during the 2019 Ashes.

The 2027 series will be played at five venues: Nottingham, Lord’s, Edgbaston, The Kia Oval, and the Utilita Bowl in Southampton. Notably, Headingley and Old Trafford are absent from the schedule, leaving Nottingham as the most northern venue for the series.