Ben Stokes Dismisses Concerns Over Ashes Preparations

England captain Ben Stokes has dismissed all concerns regarding England’s limited preparations for the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. He said that in today’s busy cricket world, it is impossible to prepare in the same traditional way as teams did in the past. Stokes shared his views with reporters at Lilac Hill Park, Perth, where England will begin their internal warm-up match on Thursday before the first Test starts on November 21.

Stokes explained that the modern cricket schedule leaves very little time for long, traditional preparation tours. “I don’t really know what we’re supposed to do, to be honest,” he said. “The schedule is pretty jam packed to be able to sort of prepare how teams probably would have 10, 15, 20, or 30 years ago.” He pointed out that modern players are constantly engaged in international cricket, franchise leagues, and other commitments, which makes it difficult to organize long warm-up tours.

England legend Ian Botham had raised concerns about the team’s short preparation period, saying that a few days of training and an internal match were not enough before such an important series. However, Stokes remained calm and confident, saying that England had been mentally and physically preparing for the Ashes for a long time. “We’ve been preparing for this for a very long time. Come the 21st of this month, we know that we would’ve done everything that is possible to be in the right place,” he said.

England’s current preparation plan includes a few days of training followed by an internal match in Perth. The match will allow players to get used to Australian pitches and weather conditions before the official Test series begins. This shorter but focused preparation is part of England’s new approach to modern cricket, which emphasizes quality over quantity when it comes to training sessions.

Stokes also confirmed that he is completely fit and ready to perform both as a batter and as a bowler. This news is a big relief for England fans, as Stokes had faced fitness issues earlier in his career. “I’m fit and raring to go with both bat and ball,” he said confidently. The all-rounder’s ability to contribute in both departments makes him a key figure in England’s Ashes campaign.

One of the biggest positives for England is the return of fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood. Stokes expressed his excitement about watching the pace duo in action again. “It’s great to have the X factor that Jofra and Woody possess in terms of pace,” he said. He added that Wood has fully recovered from his knee surgery and is looking strong, while Archer’s return after two and a half years adds real firepower to the bowling attack.

While fans are focused on Archer and Wood, Stokes made it clear that England’s bowling strength goes beyond just speed. “It’s not just about pace, it’s about skill,” he emphasized. Stokes praised England’s “battery of fast bowlers” who can perform well in different conditions. He mentioned that the squad has been selected carefully to include bowlers with complementary skills, ensuring balance and depth across the five-Test series.

Stokes also spoke about the mental challenges of playing an Ashes series in Australia, especially for less experienced players. He shared that the pressure and media attention around the Ashes can be intense, and it is important to stay calm and focused. “Coming to Australia for the Ashes is a lot different than anything else,” he said. “There’s a lot more that goes on away from the cricket itself.”

As captain, Stokes has been advising the younger members of the squad to stay strong and positive. “It’s just making everyone aware that’s the case but making sure it’s nothing to be afraid of, nothing to be scared of,” he explained. He wants his team to see the Ashes as a great opportunity rather than a pressure situation. Stokes believes that maintaining self-belief and team unity will be key to England’s success in the series.

Despite the short preparation time and concerns from former players, England’s captain is confident that his team is ready to take on Australia. Stokes’ leadership, combined with the return of key fast bowlers and a solid squad, gives England a strong chance to perform well. The Ashes, known for its intense rivalry, will test both teams’ skill and mental toughness. For Stokes, the message is clear — preparation may look different today, but confidence, focus, and teamwork remain the same keys to victory.