The 29-year-old Mason Crane has been named in England’s squad for the upcoming ODI tri-series in Pakistan, marking a return to the international fold after making three appearances for his country as a 20-year-old in 2017 and early 2018.
His last international outing came in the final Test of England’s 2017/18 Ashes tour in Sydney, where he scalped the wicket of Usman Khawaja, who had already made 171 runs, before Australia hammered them 4-0 in the series.
Crane also played two T20Is against South Africa and his only wicket came in the form of Proteas great AB de Villiers.
Speaking to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Crane admitted he had begun to lose hope of another international opportunity before rediscovering his ambition in recent years.
“I didn’t really expect it, to be honest,” Crane said.
“It was a bit out of the blue. But it’s really cool and I’m buzzing.
“I think there was a period a few years ago where I was sort of resigned to the fact it may not come again, where I maybe put a bit too much pressure on myself and wasn’t particularly enjoying it.
“But the last couple of years I feel like I’ve I sort of got that spark back and the ambition that comes with it.”
The 29-year-old will now look to make the most of his return, with his improved all-round game helping strengthen his case for international recognition.
Crane has been in good form in the domestic circuit in England, picking up 34 wickets in 14 County Championship matches and a further 15 in 10 Vitality Blast appearances in 2026, helping his case for a recall.
Crane has also been working to develop his craft as a leg-spinner, insisting he wants to be recognised for more than occasional moments of brilliance.
“I don’t want to just be a highlights reel bowler, every now and then bowl a really good ball and just live off that,” he added.
“I pride myself on trying to play to the situations really, trying to work out how I’m going to get the most out of a wicket and get a particular guy out.
“I’ve also given myself a bit more freedom, I guess, with the ball now. I try and bowl more variations, but I’m also better at bowling them now.
“It’s about sort of adding as many strings to your bow. It’s really important.”
England begin their tri-series campaign against Pakistan on October 20 in Rawalpindi as the teams to continue their build-up to the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027.
