Stokes Defends Bold Ashes Prep as England Chase First Win in Australia Since 2011

Ben Stokes of England appeals successfully for lbw against Shubman Gill of India during Day One of the 4th Rothesay Test Match between England and India at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, England on July 23, 2025. Clive Mason/Getty Images

Captain Ben Stokes has strongly defended England’s unorthodox preparation for the Ashes as they aim to break a 14-year winless run in Australia.

England will head into the first Test at Optus Stadium in Perth, starting on Nov. 21, having not played a warm-up game against any Australian opposition.