Ben Stokes urges England to unleash their ferocity in Adelaide to keep Ashes hopes alive
Ben Stokes is calling England to summon the ferocity they showed against India this summer and to channel some “dog” in Adelaide as they attempt to rescue the Ashes series. After England slipped to a 2-0 deficit in Brisbane, Stokes emphasized that Australia is a place for toughness and that England must mirror that mindset under his captaincy. His message, which started during the mid-series break in Noosa, appears to have been reinforced internally rather than publicly softened. He even referenced the controversial verbals and time-wasting row with India at Lord’s in July, which preceded a hard-fought 22-run victory.
"What needed to be said has been said," Stokes replied when asked if the message about weakness had been reiterated. "Everyone is very switched on for what needs to be done this week. Everyone has responded incredibly well to it … what other option do we have?" He added that the goal is to fight in every situation, to study the opposition, and to show some dog—a metaphor for grit and resilience. He pointed to Lord’s as a turning example, noting that England had to be perfect to win and that their attitude and mentality were decisive in securing the best possible chance to win.
England have made one change for the upcoming match in Adelaide, with Josh Tongue replacing Gus Atkinson to add pace to the attack. Shoaib Bashir was not selected again, with Will Jacks preferred as the all-rounder—Stokes had previously indicated Bashir as his first-choice spinner a couple of weeks ago.
Of the 12 players England have used in the series, only five had prior Test experience in Australia. When asked if the intensity of the tour and two hostile crowds contributed to a perceived lack of fight, Stokes admitted the crowds have played a role. He recalled his own first tour to Australia, noting the overwhelming reception and how it remained memorable for everyone involved. Now, he believes the team has learned the environment and expects the next three games to feel familiar rather than alien. There will be no surprises, even for young players like Jamie Smith, who learned the hard way after dropping a catch at the Gabba and facing relentless crowd pressure thereafter.
Stokes acknowledged the fans’ disappointment but reassured them that there are no defeatist attitudes within the team. While the opening two games impacted morale, he says there is no lingering negativity among the players. If there is any moment of doubt, he asks, what would be the point of turning up? The aim is clear: in Adelaide, after all that has been said, England need a fresh energy and a new showing. Now is the time for individuals to stand up and prove themselves.
