Ashes: Ben Stokes urges England to unleash 'the dog'
What's the story
England Test captain Ben Stokes has urged his team to show more aggression and determination in the upcoming third Test of the Ashes series against Australia, starting on December 17. After two consecutive eight-wicket defeats, Stokes is calling for a more aggressive approach from his players. The match will be played at the Adelaide Oval, marking a crucial moment in Stokes's tenure.
Personal perspective
Stokes emphasizes individual interpretation of 'fight'
Stokes stressed that the term 'fight' would be interpreted differently by each player. He emphasized the importance of facing Australia head-on and not backing down. "What it [fight] means to me could be completely different to someone else," he said, as per ESPNcricinfo, adding that it's about fighting in every situation and understanding what is needed for the team.
Leadership
Stokes leads by example in 2nd Test
Stokes's call for more aggression was first seen in his own actions during the final day of the second Test. He and Will Jacks put up a 96-run partnership, showing resistance despite Australia's impending victory. "I could have gone out there on that morning session in Brisbane and nicked off first ball," Stokes said, adding that going out with a fighting mindset is what he means by fight.
Strategy
Stokes encourages aggressive bowling despite lost cause
Even when the match was lost, Stokes urged Jofra Archer to bowl aggressively. Archer delivered one of his fastest spells in an England shirt, despite facing "unfair criticism" for his efforts in a lost cause. "That was one of those moments when I asked him to really turn it on because I needed that to be a marker for us to carry into Adelaide," Stokes said.
Toughness
Stokes stresses on mental toughness in dressing room
Stokes has also stressed the need for mental toughness in the dressing room. He said, "This isn't a place for weak men," a sentiment that resonated with the squad during their four-day break. He reiterated this message to the whole squad on Sunday, ahead of England's first training session before the third Test.
Example
Stokes cites Lord's Test as example of 'dog'
Stokes cited the recent Test against India at Lord's as an example of the 'dog' that resides in this group. He said, "That (Lord's) is exactly what I'm on about. That was a moment where we all did that, we all noticed and we all identified that moment." He added, "We were probably in a situation where we would have to be absolutely perfect to win that game, and we were."