England’s hopes of winning the Ashes series are significantly tied to the full participation of Ben Stokes. The all-rounder has already made a notable impact in past encounters against Australia.
Stokes Under Australian Scrutiny
Since arriving in Perth, Stokes has faced intense scrutiny from the Australian media. A local newspaper labeled him as “England’s Cocky Captain Complainer.” This criticism intensified earlier this week when Stokes and other England players were spotted on a golf course, which raised questions about their practice regime.
Support from Coaching Staff
Ryan Campbell, Stokes’ county coach and Western Australian, expressed his disapproval of the media coverage. He stated, “I got a bit shirty about it. I want WA to put on a good show. I don’t want that stuff.” Campbell emphasized that Stokes and fellow player Joe Root should not be targeted, given their ability to rise above the chatter.
- Campbell questions the media’s decision to target Stokes.
- He defends Stokes as one of England’s most resilient players.
- Stokes and Root are recognized for their composure under pressure.
Stokes’ Historic Ashes Contributions
Ben Stokes boasts a series of memorable moments in Ashes history. His journey began with a century in his second Test against Australia during the 2013-14 tour in Perth. However, his most remarkable performance came during the 2019 Ashes series at Headingley, where he achieved a match-winning century.
Inspirational Moments on the Field
Jack Leach, Stokes’ partner during the Headingley match, recounted how Australia’s aggressive style fueled Stokes’ motivation. Leach recalled Stokes’ determination, stating he insisted, “I am not walking off that pitch until we have won the game.” This unwavering commitment ultimately led to a dramatic victory for England.
| Notable Achievements of Ben Stokes | Year | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Century in Second Test | 2013-14 | Perth |
| Match-Winning Century | 2019 | Headingley |
Ben Stokes heads into the current Ashes series with a resolute mindset, especially amidst talks regarding his batting performance in Australia. With his history of impressive contributions, full participation from Stokes will be pivotal for England’s chances of reclaiming the Ashes.
