The 2026 county cricket season opens a window of opportunity for players seeking an England Test recall, and Ollie Robinson hopes to make the most of it.
Robinson, 32, was a key bowler in the early Bazball years but has not played a Test since March 2024. His talent for the big stage is unquestioned, but fitness and past disciplinary issues have interrupted his international career. Now, he takes on the added responsibility of captaining Sussex in red-ball cricket. Success as both a bowler and leader could pave the way for an England comeback this summer.
Robinson’s last Test came during the fourth match of England’s 4-1 series loss in India. A back strain limited him to just 13 overs, and concerns over conditioning, combined with a personal podcast, created tension with England management. Since then, younger bowlers like Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse have been given opportunities.
Despite this, Robinson has maintained consistency in county cricket, taking 39 wickets in each of the past two seasons. While not matching the 74 and 63 wickets he claimed in 2018 and 2019, his performances show he remains a bowler of high class. Robinson’s home series performances in Pakistan in 2022, where he helped England to a 3-0 series win, demonstrate his skill in challenging conditions.
Determined to regain an England spot, Robinson played grade cricket for Sydney University during the winter, keeping sharp and even practicing against Steve Smith ahead of a New South Wales match. He emphasizes the need to stay fit, bowl consistently, and take wickets throughout the early county season to push for a national recall.
Robinson says he has received clear guidance from England managing director Rob Key and head coach Brendon McCullum. “Take wickets, bowl overs, and stay fit,” he summarised. Now, playing all 14 Championship games for Sussex in 2026 could be his “last roll of the dice” to return to the England team.
As Sussex captain, Robinson also relishes the leadership role. “You’re always talking as a bowling unit, sharing ideas and field settings,” he said. “Half of captaincy is already in that, helping bowlers get players out and planning strategies. I’ve watched cricket all my life, so I have plenty of ideas to bring to the field.”
Success in this dual role could see Robinson back in the Test arena, ready to support England’s next summer campaign and contribute his experience to the national side.
