Stokes Fires Back at Critics Ahead of Crucial Gabba Test
England captain Ben Stokes has forcefully responded to claims his team displayed arrogance during their heavy defeat in Perth, setting a defiant tone as the Ashes series prepares to resume in Brisbane. The tourists suffered a demoralising two-day loss in the first Test, prompting fierce criticism from former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson.
Drawing the Line at 'Arrogant' Label
Stokes acknowledged that his team must accept criticism following their poor performance, but he firmly rejected the specific term 'arrogant' used by Johnson in a strongly-worded newspaper column. "I think arrogant might be a little bit too far, but that’s OK," Stokes stated during a training session at Allan Border Field. "We’ll take the rough with the smooth. You can call us rubbish, call us whatever you want to. I’d rather words like ‘rubbish’, but ‘arrogant’... I’m not so sure about that."
The England skipper pointed to positive passages of play in Perth, insisting the team's commitment should not be questioned. The decision for most England players to skip a two-day tour match in Canberra in favour of specialised training in Brisbane has further fuelled the debate about their methods.
Pink Ball Preparation Underway for Day-Night Clash
With the series poised to continue with a day-night second Test at the Gabba starting on Thursday, England have begun intensive practice sessions with the pink Kookaburra ball. The historic Brisbane ground presents a formidable challenge for the visitors, who haven't secured a victory there since 1986.
Stokes expressed understanding towards disappointed supporters, both those who have travelled to Australia and those watching from home. "It’s a results-based job that we’re in," he conceded. "We love our fans. We know we’ve got an incredible fanbase who come out here and support us. They want to see us win. We want to win. We’re absolutely desperate."
The England captain emphasised that his squad is using every available moment to prepare for the must-win encounter, determined to level the series and alter the perception of their capabilities. The pressure is now immense on Stokes and his team to deliver a performance that matches their stated ambitions.
