England men’s cricket team director Rob Key on Friday said he does not rule out the return of Ben Stokes, who announced his international retirement last month, for next year’s Ashes.

“It would be a brilliant story if he does (come back). He hasn’t (indicated a change in his decision), but I wouldn’t be surprised. Anything is possible with Ben,” Key was quoted by Sky Sports.

Stokes had shocked England when he announced his decision to step away from the team during its third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. He had been leading the side since 2022 and said “he did not have any more fight left” in him.

The all-rounder was also in news for the wrong reasons as he flouted a midnight curfew rule, for which he was handed a one-match suspension

However, Key added that there was no acrimony over how Stokes announced his exit. “No, not at all. Not as far as I’m concerned,” he said.

The Ashes is set to commence in less than 12 months time and England have not held the urn since 2017-18. It last won a series in 2015, when the Alastair Cook-led side won 3-2 at home.

Stokes’ return would boost England’s hopes on finally reclaiming the Ashes at home.