Ben Stokes has publicly slammed the decision to exclude Headingley from the 2027 men’s Ashes itinerary, branding the move as "shambolic". The absence of a major northern venue from the forthcoming series has sparked a wave of criticism from players, commentators and supporters ever since the schedule was first revealed.
The former England captain took to Instagram to voice his displeasure after seeing a post that outlined the new fixture list. In his comment he not only expressed his frustration but also celebrated England’s recent triumph, writing "Great win though" as a nod to the team’s dominant 103‑run victory over Pakistan at the Leeds ground earlier in the week. Joe Root, who succeeded Stokes as England’s Test skipper, echoed similar sentiments, calling the omission of Headingley a "shame" and reminding fans of England’s impressive record at the historic stadium.
Stokes responded emphatically, saying, "Shame is an understatement – shambolic would be more appropriate." His choice of words underscored how deeply he feels about the venue’s significance. Headingley holds a special place in Stokes’s own cricketing narrative.
It was there in 2019 that he produced an unforgettable unbeaten 135, partnering with tail‑ender Jack Leach for a 76‑run last‑wicket stand that propelled England to a record chase of 359. That innings rescued the Ashes series and is still celebrated as one of the greatest finishes in the sport’s history. The memory of that performance adds an emotional layer to his criticism of the venue’s exclusion. The 2027 series will be contested across five grounds, with the opening Test at Trent Bridge in Nottingham – the most northerly venue on the schedule.
The other matches are set for Lord’s, Edgbaston, the newly‑named Utilita Bowl in Southampton and the Kia Oval in London. Notably absent are both Headingley and Old Trafford, two stadiums that have hosted many of the series’ most iconic moments. England’s recent form at Headingley bolsters the argument for its inclusion. The side is currently on a streak of seven consecutive Test victories at the ground, the latest win achieved inside three days during the recent Pakistan series.
Such a dominant record suggests that the team thrives in the conditions offered by the Leeds venue, making its omission all the more puzzling to players and fans alike. Former England batsman Mark Butcher, who scored a century at Headingley during the 1998 Ashes, questioned the logic behind the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision on Sky Sports. He described the exclusion as "extraordinary" and "bizarre," pointing out that the north of England would be left without any Ashes cricket beyond Trent Bridge.
Butcher argued that the sport’s claim to be inclusive and for everyone requires representation in the north, and that financial considerations should not override the cultural and historical importance of venues like Headingley and Old Trafford. Harry Brook, a young England player who was at the crease in Leeds during the Pakistan Test, also voiced his disappointment when asked about the omission. He admitted feeling "slightly" let down, noting the team’s remarkable success at the ground. Brook referenced Stokes’s 2019 heroics and the role Headingley played in keeping the Ashes alive in recent years.
He expressed a personal affection for the stadium, calling it "one of my favourites, if not my favourite ground to bat on," and lamented that such decisions are made by the hierarchy rather than the players. The broader debate touches on the commercial and strategic priorities of the ECB.
While the inclusion of the Utilita Bowl in Southampton marks a first‑time Ashes Test for that venue, critics argue that expanding to new locations should not come at the expense of traditional strongholds that have contributed to the sport’s heritage and fan base. The balance between innovation, regional representation and honoring historic sites remains a contentious issue. For those planning to follow the series, the schedule is as follows (all times UK and Ireland): - First Test: Friday 18 June – Tuesday 22 June (11:00) at Trent Bridge, Nottingham - Second Test: Wednesday 30 June – Sunday 4 July (11:00) at Lord’s - Third Test: Thursday 8 July – Monday 12 July (11:00) at Edgbaston, Birmingham - Fourth Test: Wednesday 21 July – Sunday 25 July (11:00) at Utilita Bowl, Southampton - Fifth Test: Thursday 29 July – Monday 2 August (11:00) at the Kia Oval, London All three of England’s Tests against Pakistan can be watched live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming options available through NOW without a contract.
The ongoing discussion about venue selection highlights the passion many hold for the Ashes and the deep connections between players, historic grounds and the fans who travel to experience the drama of Test cricket.