Ben Stokes Aims to Join Elite Group in Ashes History

Ben Stokes is aiming to win the upcoming Ashes series by showcasing strong dominance on the field. He wants to join the elusive list of England captains who have successfully won the Ashes on Australian soil. This is certainly a big ask, but Stokes has the confidence, as well as the skills to do it on his own terms.

Speaking to the reporters, Ben Stokes said that he wants to go back to England in January with a feeling of winning the Ashes in Australia. He wants to be that ‘lucky’ captain who reclaims the prestigious urn from Australia at the end of the series.

"I've come here absolutely desperate to get home on that plane in January as one of the lucky few captains from England who have come here and been successful," said England test captain, Ben Stokes.

He also acknowledged the fact that the current challenge of Ashes is quite big, but it is not putting him under any pressure. He is trying to play at his full potential, just like he has done in any other series as captain.

"Personally, I do understand how big a series this is but it's not putting any more effort into this one than I have done any other series I've been captain." added Ben Stokes.

England is currently touring Australia with a squad which has not played much in Australia. Except Root, Stokes and few others, the current list of players do not have the Australian experience of the Ashes. So, this series will let them know how big the challenge is, and what is expected from them in terms of results.

"Everyone in the world, everyone in Australia, everyone in England knows how big this series is. If we were to come out and not accept that and go on that as just another series, then we'd only be lying to ourselves and lying to the fact of what this series is.” said Ben Stokes.

“In particular this team, for myself, Brendan and for Rob (Key) and facing what that feels like, looking it in the eyes, taking it on, not being afraid of the challenge that we have ahead of us.” added Ben Stokes.

Understanding the Intensity of the Series

The England captain urged his teammates to understand the magnitude of the series. He said everyone should recognize that this tour presents an opportunity to achieve something big that will be remembered for years. 

"We know it's a huge task coming to Australia and everything that comes with that away from the field, on the field. It is a huge two-and-a-half months for us. Rather than playing it down and not really accepting this moment for what it is, I think maybe we would not really understand what the moment is.” said Ben Stokes.

“So yeah - putting it all out there, letting everyone know the expectations of what it's going to be like in particular because we've got a squad here who have come in and are experiencing Australia for the first time." added Ben Stokes.

The first Ashes test is about to begin in Perth on November 21. This will be a big challenge for the Stokes-led team, which is playing in Australia for the first time. They are confident to secure the victory in the first match, however, Australia can give them plenty of surprises with their new debutants.