Olly Stone, the England fast bowler, will fly home from the ongoing tour of Pakistan on Wednesday. He is returning to prepare for his wedding this weekend. Stone’s wedding is set for Saturday, October 12, in Norfolk. Due to the tight schedule, he will likely miss the second Test against Pakistan.
How did Olly Stone Perform Recently?
Stone recently impressed by taking seven wickets in two Tests against Sri Lanka. These matches marked his first appearances in the format in three years. Despite his strong performance, he did not make the squad for the first Test in Multan, which began on Monday. Instead, England chose Brydon Carse as their high-pace option. This decision allowed Stone to leave earlier than planned.
Stone’s return date remains uncertain. It may depend on how England’s other fast bowlers perform after the first Test. Given the short time between his wedding and Tuesday’s second Test, he is unlikely to play.
Olly Stone Gets Support from England Management
England’s management supports Stone’s decision to return home. They noted that he was not included in the latest batch of central contracts. His wedding had been arranged long before his selection for the tour. Before leaving, Stone spoke with Rob Key and Brendon McCullum—England’s managing director and coach—who agreed it was best for him to attend his wedding.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Stone shared his thoughts on balancing cricket and personal life. “We booked the wedding based on me only playing for Notts at the time,” he explained. “Jess said she was happy to move the wedding, but I wanted to keep it where it was if possible.”
A Special Time for Olly Stone
This moment marks a significant chapter in Stone’s life as he prepares to marry his partner Jess. Fellow cricketer Joe Root expressed excitement for him during a recent press conference. “It’s a special time in anyone’s life,” Root stated. “I’m really excited for him… starting a different chapter in his life.”
Stone’s situation reflects a broader trend among cricketers who face dilemmas balancing personal milestones with professional commitments. In previous instances, players like Tony Pigott postponed weddings to fulfill cricketing duties. Others, like Root, have rearranged their own nuptials due to tour schedules.
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