Craig Overton Eyes England Test Return After Somerset Form and Surgery Recovery
Somerset all-rounder Craig Overton is positioning himself for a potential return to England’s Test squad following a period of injury recovery and strong domestic form. With Ben Stokes retiring from Test cricket, England selectors are preparing to announce the squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, opening up opportunities for all-rounders to stake their claim.
What Happened
Craig Overton last featured in Test cricket for England on March 24, 2022, against the West Indies. In late 2025, Overton underwent double hernia surgery, which forced him to miss the SA20 tournament early in the year. During his extended recovery period over the winter, Overton worked on his batting mechanics, specifically refining his hand positions to keep them closer to his body and avoid leaning over to the off side.
Overton returned to action in the 2026 domestic season with notable performances for Somerset. Across 14 matches, he scored 185 runs at an average of 46.25 with a strike rate of 176.2, including a top score of 82. He also captured 15 wickets at an economy rate of 8.40. On July 18, 2026, Overton sealed Somerset’s spot at Finals Day at Edgbaston by hitting the winning runs off the final delivery of the match.
Key Highlights
- Overton last played Test cricket on March 24, 2022, versus the West Indies.
- Underwent double hernia surgery in late 2025 and missed the SA20 window while recovering.
- Accumulated 185 runs at an average of 46.25 and took 15 wickets across 14 domestic matches in 2026.
- Hit the final-ball winning runs on July 18, 2026, to take Somerset to Finals Day at Edgbaston.
- Adjusted his hand position technique over the winter to improve balance and reduce leg-before-wicket and bowled dismissals.
Why This Matters
Ben Stokes’ retirement from Test cricket has left a significant void in both the batting and all-round departments for England. As the selection panel evaluates options for the upcoming series against Pakistan, Overton’s recent domestic contributions with bat and ball have placed him among the candidates under consideration.
What to Watch Next
England is expected to announce its Test squad for the series against Pakistan. The announcement will clarify how the selection panel intends to replace Ben Stokes and whether Overton’s domestic form earns him a recall to the national side.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Craig Overton last play Test cricket for England?
Craig Overton last played Test cricket for England on March 24, 2022, in a match against the West Indies.
What surgery did Craig Overton undergo in late 2025?
Overton underwent double hernia surgery in late 2025, which required recovery time over the winter and caused him to miss the SA20 tournament.
Why is there an open all-rounder position in England’s Test team?
The position became available following the retirement of Ben Stokes from Test cricket ahead of the upcoming series against Pakistan.
Source: Crictracker / Cricinfo