New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) England’s seam-bowling all-rounder Sam Curran stated that he is focused on earning a return to the national white-ball team through impressive performances for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the upcoming 2025 IPL season, which kicks off on March 22.

Curran has not represented England since last year’s white-ball series against the West Indies and was not selected for the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan. "My primary goal is to secure my place back in the (England white-ball) squad. With England, I believe I have yet to discover my ideal role.

"During the Champions Trophy and the series in India (at the start of 2025), it was evident that they prioritized a batting-heavy lineup with numerous batters and extra quicks. I feel that if I can define my role with England, I will make my way back; who knows what lies ahead. The age-old adage of needing runs and wickets is undeniable; I have to continue doing that.

"I feel I am in a really positive mindset. I was obviously disappointed when it happened, but I’m still quite young and feel I have grown in terms of dealing with setbacks. With more experience, I can read situations better; I sincerely hope to return to the team. There’s only one route (to achieve that), and I hope to have an excellent IPL and assess where things stand in the summer," Curran was quoted as saying by ICC on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast.

CSK will commence their IPL 2025 journey against fellow five-time champions Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 23. The 2025 IPL will also signify Curran’s second tenure with CSK after previously participating in the 2020 and 2021 seasons. He also shared insights on the feedback given by McCullum regarding his exclusion from England’s white-ball plans.

"Baz (McCullum) contacted me at the outset when I was left out, and he was straightforward and honest, which I appreciated. I’ve never played under him, but he appears very candid about (his expectations). He mentioned that I wouldn’t be included right now, but that didn’t mean the door was closed. It’s about stepping up, performing well, and showcasing my skills.

"He was very transparent about the balance of the team and how I could have been included if things were different. I value that more than the usual response of ‘you were just a bit unlucky to miss out’. As a player, sometimes those more brutal truths can be beneficial as they motivate you to prove them wrong. Fingers crossed by June, I’ll be back in the squads and contributing," he added.