Robinson Eyes England Test Recall in 2026

Ollie Robinson seeks a recall to the England Test side after regaining form this summer.

Robinson in Contact with England Bowler Ollie Robinson has been in communication with England head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key as he considers a return to the Test side. This follows a successful summer for Robinson, who has taken 11 wickets at 28.54 from 104 overs. He has also scored an unbeaten 100 as part of a memorable ninth-wicket stand with Jack Carson against Surrey. With his relationship with McCullum and captain Ben Stokes having deteriorated in the past, Robinson's renewed contact with the pair suggests that the door to a recall has been left open. ## Robinson's Past with England Robinson earned 20 Test caps between June 2021 and February 2024, during which he took an impressive 76 wickets at 22.92. However, his time with the England team was marred by concerns over his fitness, including untimely back spasms against Australia in 2021-22 and India two years later. He lost his central contract in October 2024, but has since regained form with Sussex, taking 39 wickets at 24.74 in 10 matches last season. ## Robinson's Return to Form This summer, Robinson has taken 11 wickets at 28.54 from 104 overs, and has also scored an unbeaten 100 in a memorable ninth-wicket stand with Jack Carson against Surrey. In an interview, Robinson stated, 'I had a text from Baz at the start of the season, just to say that the door was still open, which was nice.' He also mentioned that Keysey rang him to say 'take wickets, knock the door down' and that there is still a spot for him in the team. ## England's Bowling Options England are expected to name their squad for the New Zealand series in mid-May, with the first Test starting on 4 June. With several bowlers currently injured or unavailable, including Mark Wood and Brydon Carse, Robinson could be a strong contender for a recall. Other potential options include Essex's Sam Cook, who earned one Test cap against Zimbabwe last summer, and 23-year-old Hampshire quick Sonny Baker, who has been clocked at 92mph this season. ## Robinson's Injury Record Reflecting on his injury record and past issues, Robinson stated, 'My mind is on cricket and nothing else. I've got the love for the game back.' He also mentioned that he feels more ready now than he did when he first got into the England team, and that he has probably grown up a bit since then as well.