Ben Stokes and that 2019 Headingley innings will forever be in the echelons of Ashes cricket history - so what a shame it is that the iconic Leeds ground won’t feature in next summer's series.

The English cricket legend Stokes completed one of the greatest test displays in the sport’s history on August 25, 2019. He led England, dovetailing during the final knockings with hero Jack Leach, to an astounding one-wicket victory over Australia in the third Ashes Test at Headingley.

Without fail, those unforgettable scenes are still today discussed by the masses when they head to the cricket ground in Headingley. Australia will land next summer to carry on the latest installment of one of sport’s fiercest rivalries.

The 2027 Ashes taking place, across five tests, at Trent Bridge, Lord’s, Edgbaston, the Oval and, for the first time in the Ashes test series, the Rose Bowl in Hampshire. The sport, particularly in the north of England, has basically been united in the backlash against the England and Wales Cricket Board regarding the scheduling.

The aforementioned icon Stokes, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, has batted for Headingley describing its omission as ‘shambolic’. Pundits and fans have made their thoughts clear.

Another great of the game David ‘bumble’ Lloyd, speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, emoted: “The traditions, the history, the games that have been played (at Headingley). Not only that, there isn’t a test match north of Trent Bridge for the Ashes. Who has come up with that?”

While, of course, holding nothing against the other venues selected, seeing neither Headingley or Manchester’s Old Trafford feature has created a sense that the north’s great cricket culture has been robbed.

Not that Headingley needs to prove its credentials but, just this summer, the grand historic ground provided a thrilling setting for England's men overcoming Pakistan in a dominant test display at a venue where they have an excellent recent record. While, Headingley was one of the main hosts for the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup action - as always the ground meets the challenge of holding major events with aplomb.

In the surrounding community, we all know what a popular spot those who love their cricket find Headingley to be. With a plethora of pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes, something like the Ashes, ordinarily brings a huge economic boost to the businessses and the city of Leeds.

So many have been hit for six by Headingley's glaring exclusion.

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