Ben Stokes praises Australia (Source: @FoxCricket/x.com)
Since the Ashes have gone on the big stage, the temperature of the cricket world has risen significantly as the thrilling cricket actions kept the fans on their toes. After a horror show in the first Test, England is eyeing a stronger bounce back in the upcoming Test match.
The rivalry has crossed the 22 yards as even a single step of Ben Stokes and Co. is being measured. Amid all the tension, the English skipper even praised Australia, jokingly comparing it to his own homeland.
Rivalries take a backseat as Australia impress Stokes
Over the years, the Ashes have presented some of the gripping rivalry moments between Australia and England. Whenever the rivals step into the field, the surface becomes a battlefield, and every delivery becomes a weapon. The ongoing Ashes is no exception to that, as the first Test saw a battle of brilliance between them.
Since the English side landed on the Aussie soil, the rivalry started even off the field. But a life beyond the 22 yards, and Australia has amazed the English skipper. Speaking to the BBC, Stokes praised the Aussie vibe, admitting it’s hard not to be amazed.
“Australia is the best country to tour away from cricket. There are so many things to do. You can go out and about and see things that only Australia has to offer, great golf courses, coffee shops, and easy places to have lunch,” Stokes said.
After ending the Perth Test early on, both sides got some time to take an off from cricket to regain focus. While exploring Australia, some of the English stars were seen riding electric scooters without helmets, sparking controversy. Unfazed, Ben Stokes fired back, saying no one can kill their adventure spirit.
“If they think it is going to stop us enjoying this country when we have time off, then it is not going to do that,” he added.
Stokes shares the key to staying cool on tough tours
Playing away matches is always challenging, and when it becomes the high-voltage Ashes, a tour turns into a battle. Stokes highlighted how crucial downtime is on away trips, especially since even England’s own home conditions are brutal enough to drain any player.
“We are human. We need to enjoy countries when we get the opportunity because we live in England, where it is miserable, freezing cold, and dark at 4 pm,” he added.
After a long break from cricket action, Australia and England will reunite on the battlefield again on December 4. With a pink ball under the lights, the upcoming Test promises another round of high-voltage drama and edge-of-the-seat excitement.
