Liam Livingstone: Embracing the Captaincy with Big Hopes

Liam Livingstone feels his journey in England's cricket squad is only beginning, believing his "best is yet to come" as he takes on the captaincy for the limited-overs series against the West Indies. The all-rounder’s recent career has been a whirlwind; after being dropped from England’s One Day International (ODI) squad in September, he returned with vigour in the T20s against Australia, where his standout performance included a powerful 87. This comeback led to his recall to the ODI series while regular captain Jos Buttler continued to recover.

In the T20 games, Livingstone, now 31, was moved up the order, taking on a higher role at fourth. Previously, he had batted as a seventh-position player while contributing with his spin-bowling skills. England’s tour in the Caribbean kicks off with a three-match ODI series in Antigua on Thursday, to be followed by five T20 games in Barbados and St. Lucia next month.

Livingstone shared with PA News how deeply honoured he felt to captain the national team, admitting, “You don’t get told you’re England captain every day—it’s something I’m incredibly proud of.” Reflecting on the challenges of being dropped earlier, he recounted an open conversation with Rob Key, England's managing director of men’s cricket, where he expressed his desire for another shot, confident he could change perceptions. He said the recent series against Australia made him feel as if he was starting a fresh chapter, convinced that his most impactful cricket lies ahead.

Though Buttler’s absence due to a calf injury leaves a temporary void, he is anticipated to return for the India tour early next year. Until then, Livingstone is tasked with leading a transitional squad that includes four uncapped players. He is also eyeing the chance to experiment with his own batting position, hoping to leave a mark on future selection choices under Brendon McCullum, who will assume charge of England’s white-ball teams in 2025.

Livingstone explained he had always believed in his capabilities, yet sometimes felt constrained. “I’ve always thought I’m good enough for England but needed more responsibility,” he remarked. For the last two years, batting lower down and bowling just a few overs left him feeling less engaged. But with recent adjustments in his batting, he ended the summer on a high note. Now, he’s eager to prove his mettle, convinced he can have a greater impact if given more time at the crease, stating, “I know I can do more if I face 60 balls rather than just 20.”