England cricket captain Ben Stokes has publicly pledged his full support to under-fire opener Ben Duckett, as the touring squad faces intense scrutiny over off-field behaviour during the Ashes series in Australia.
Captain Stokes Steps In to Shield His Players
Speaking ahead of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, Stokes addressed the controversy for the first time since the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reiterated its "high expectations of behaviour". The tourists' preparations have been overshadowed by reports of excessive drinking during a mid-series trip to Noosa, which managing director Rob Key has pledged to investigate.
This was compounded when unverified footage, appearing to show an inebriated Duckett in a tense exchange with members of the public, circulated on social media. Stokes, who has faced his own well-documented challenges, emphasised that his primary role is to protect his players from the growing glare of public scrutiny.
"I am obviously aware of the reports and everything circulating around. My main concern right now is my players and how I handle this moment is the most important thing to me," stated Stokes.
Stokes Draws on Personal Experience
The England skipper, who took a mental health break from the game in 2021, cited his first-hand experience of how public pressure can affect individuals. He stressed the importance of offering genuine support during difficult times.
"I have first-hand experience of how this can affect people and my role as England captain is to protect my players as much as I possibly can," he explained. "Supporting them and letting them know that I will be there for them through thick and thin is very, very important, and Ben Duckett knows that."
Detailing his private conversation with Duckett, Stokes added: "I just reassured him that I’m not saying that for the sake of it. Just please come to me because I know what it’s like. It’s not a nice place to be."
Team Changes for the Melbourne Test
On the field, England have been forced into changes for the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where a festive crowd of around 90,000 is expected. With no reserve openers on tour, Duckett retains his place despite a series batting average of just 16.
However, Ollie Pope has been dropped after a prolonged run of poor form. The number three batsman, who also lost the vice-captaincy before the tour, averages 17 across 16 Ashes innings. He will be replaced by Jacob Bethell, who will make his debut in the high-pressure environment.
In a further blow to England's bowling attack, Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour with a worrying left side strain. He is replaced in the XI by Gus Atkinson.
The England squad, already 3-0 down and having surrendered the Ashes urn, now faces a monumental challenge to restore pride and focus amidst the off-field distractions.
