Ben Stokes has given his full support to head coach Brendon McCullum following England's 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia, as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced a review into the tour. Stokes said he 'absolutely loves working with Baz' and described him as 'a very, very, very good coach'.
The ECB review, confirmed by chief executive Richard Gould, will examine 'planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours, and our ability to adapt and respond effectively as circumstances require'. McCullum, while accepting the need for improvement, indicated he would resist being told what to do, stating: 'Am I for being told what to do? Of course I am not.'
Stokes, who confirmed he has no intention of stepping down as captain, acknowledged that opponents have found ways to counter England's aggressive style. 'We are now playing against teams who have answers to the style of cricket that we have been playing over quite a long period of time now,' he said, adding that England have 'gifted the flow of the game back to the opposition' at key moments.
The captain admitted his own performances have fallen short, saying: 'I've not been up to levels I expected of myself as an all-round player, as a captain as well.' He stressed the need for 'honest discussions' within the squad and a return to the drawing board.
Despite the series defeat, Stokes praised the efforts of his players, particularly Brydon Carse, who took 22 wickets on the tour. 'Brydon Carse has played five Test matches, he's run in every single time and given his absolute all,' Stokes said, adding that the 'warrior spirit' was evident across the team.
