England captain Ben Stokes ‘desperate’ to win back the Ashes in Australia

19 Nov 2025 • 10:38 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Ben Stokes has claimed he is “desperate” to lead England to an Ashes series victory in Australia and regain the urn.
  • England faces a formidable challenge, having failed to win a single match in their last three tours Down Under, enduring 13 defeats and two draws.
  • Stokes aims to join an exclusive group of only five post-war England captains who have won the Ashes on Australian soil.
  • The all-rounder has made a timely return to full fitness after a torn shoulder muscle and is prepared to play a crucial role with both bat and ball in the upcoming series.
  • Stokes reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to England cricket by signing a new two-year central contract, prioritising national duty over T20 franchise opportunities.

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