Jamie Overton takes indefinite break from red-ball cricket

Jamie Overton has announced an indefinite break from red-ball cricket. Overton, who has played 99 First-Class matches and a couple of Tests, has represented Surrey and Somerset in the domestic circuit in addition to the two Tests in 2022 and 2025.

Announcing his decision recently, he stated that he was grateful getting the chance to play First-Class cricket for so long. Overton also stated it was always red-ball cricket that motored his ambitions.

"After a great deal of thought, I have decided to take an indefinite break from red-ball cricket. I feel very fortunate to have played 99 First-Class matches, including two Test matches for England. Red-ball, First-Class cricket has provided the foundation for my professional career and has been the gateway to every opportunity I’ve had in the game so far. It’s where I learnt the game, and it fuelled the goals and ambitions that have driven me for so long," stated Overton, as per the England and Wales Cricket Board.

The 31-year-old acknowledged that focusing on red-ball cricket in addition to limited-overs cricket will be unfeasible going forward. Overton pledged that he will aim to give his all as long as possible.  

"However, at this stage of my career, with the demands of cricket across a 12-month calendar, it’s no longer possible to commit fully to all formats at every level, both physically and mentally. Going forward, my focus will be on white-ball cricket, and I will continue to give everything to play at the highest level for as long as I can," he added.

England Men's Director of Cricket Rob Key admitted that Overton would have been a component of England's red-ball setup had he not taken an indefinite break from the format. However, he appreciated and respected Overton's sudden decision. 

“Jamie’s news came unexpected and it is sad to see, as he would have been part of our red-ball plans for the foreseeable future. That said, it serves as a reminder of the cricketing landscape we now operate in. We respect his decision and are grateful to him for informing us when he did,” remarked Key.

Overton was recently a part of London Spirit at The Hundred Men's 2025. His most-recent match for England was the final Test of the five-match series against India at The Oval.