England All-Rounder Jamie Overton Ends Red-Ball Career Ahead Ashes Series

England all-rounder Jamie Overton, aged 31, has announced an indefinite break from red-ball cricket, effectively ruling himself out of the upcoming Ashes 2025-26 series. Overton, who has struggled with recurring injuries including five stress fractures, cited the physical and mental demands of playing across all formats as reasons for his decision, choosing instead to focus on white-ball cricket internationally and in franchise leagues like the IPL and Big Bash League. Despite having played only two Tests and 99 first-class matches, he was expected to be part of England's Ashes squad due to his pace-bowling style favored by coach Brendon McCullum and his ability as a lower-order batter. Overton’s recent return to Test cricket against India saw him bowling more overs than in years but also led to fresh concerns over his shoulder, hip, and groin, confirming the toll on his body. He informed England's management ahead of the Ashes squad selection to allow ample planning time, expressing gratitude for his red-ball career but recognizing the need to preserve his fitness for white-ball formats. His shift highlights the growing trend of players prioritizing limited-overs cricket amid the demanding modern cricket calendar.