Stokes Fires Back at Critics Ahead of Crucial Gabba Test
England captain Ben Stokes has firmly rejected claims that his team's approach is 'arrogant' following their heavy defeat in the first Ashes Test, while accepting legitimate criticism comes with the territory of international cricket. The comments came during England's training session at Allan Border Field in Brisbane, where the tourists began preparations with the pink Kookaburra ball for the day-night second Test.
Drawing the Line at 'Arrogant' Label
The specific accusation of arrogance was levelled by former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson in a strongly-worded column for the West Australian newspaper. Stokes addressed the criticism directly, stating: "I think arrogant might be a little bit too far, but that's OK. 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."
Despite the comprehensive two-day defeat in Perth, Stokes maintained that England showed positive signs during passages of play. The decision for most England players to skip a two-day tour match in Canberra in favour of extra training in Brisbane has further fuelled the criticism from some quarters.
Massive Challenge Ahead at Fortress Gabba
The scale of England's task is now considerable as the series resumes with the day-night second Test at The Gabba in Brisbane on Thursday. The historic venue presents a daunting challenge for the tourists, who haven't secured a victory there since 1986. Stokes acknowledged the weight of expectation from England's passionate supporters, both those who have travelled to Australia and those watching through the night back home.
"It's a results-based job that we're in," Stokes admitted. "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. They're absolutely desperate. We're all on the same wavelength."
The England captain emphasised that his team is using every available resource and moment to prepare for the crucial match, determined to level the series after their disappointing start in Perth. With perceptions only able to be changed out in the middle, all eyes will be on how England respond when play begins under lights at one of cricket's most intimidating venues.
