When England take on New Zealand in a two Test series next month, Olly Stone will be hoping to add to his three caps having not played a first-class game since his last Test in June 2021.
After that Test, Stone suffered a fourth stress fracture of the back and was forced to undergo a "last resort" operation he hoped would save his Test career. Stone had two screws inserted into his lower spine and appears to have recovered well, making his England return in the shorter formats late last year.
18 months on, he has the chance prove both his fitness and quality against New Zealand ahead of the Ashes, with the 29-year-old England's sole express quick with Mark Wood rested after a busy winter and Jofra Archer cautiously beginning his own return from injury.
"I try not to look too far ahead because I have thought of the future before and then you pick up an injury and you're disappointed but an Ashes summer is exciting," Stone told the Daily Mail.
"I had a tiny experience of it back in 2019 when picked for one Test but it's something I want to be a part of and also to go Down Under in a few years' time and play one there. That's what I'm aiming towards.
"The main reason for that surgery was to be back and available for Test cricket. I've had taste of it and then my body has given up on me, so this was the last resort to keep that dream alive."
In his three Tests so far, Stone has impressed, picking up ten wickets at an average of 19.40. However, he has yet to play two games in a row for England and the 29-year-old is hoping his return against New Zealand will mark a new chapter in his career.
"I've found it difficult being patient at times but we aimed for this tour as a safe sort of return and hopefully I can put a run of games together and put the past behind me," he added.
"I love all formats but having that taste of Test cricket made me want more and it wouldn't have sat right if I hadn't given this option a go. If this surgery doesn't allow me to do what I want, it will be tough to walk away but I know I will do so having given myself every possible chance."
